Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has spoken up about the chaotic clashes between the Ghana Police Service and anti-galamsey protesters, weighing in on a topic that has been stirring the nation.
The ex-president shared his thoughts during an interview on Angel FM, where he addressed the alleged unruly scenes that unfolded when protesters reportedly turned their frustrations towards the police officers.
In his view, if anyone crosses the line and lays hands on law enforcement personnel or, even more brazenly, seizes a police car key, then they must face the consequences. “You can’t just attack a police officer or take their car key and expect to walk free,” he stated. According to him, such behavior is unacceptable and deserves to be punished. His message was clear, respect for the law and the authorities is paramount, even during protests. While he supports the right to demonstrate, he stressed that the exercise of that right must be peaceful to maintain its legitimacy.
Kufuor’s comments couldn’t have come at a more crucial time, as illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, continues to wreak havoc on Ghana’s environment. The practice has devastated the country’s natural resources, leading to polluted rivers, disappearing forests, and shrinking biodiversity. And it’s not just about the environment; the livelihoods of entire communities that depend on these natural resources are crumbling. “This menace is not only destroying the environment, but it’s also threatening the survival of countless Ghanaians who rely on these resources to live,” he noted with concern.
With illegal mining becoming a national crisis, Kufuor believes that tackling it requires more than just government intervention, it calls for everyone to step up. He made a passionate plea for unity and collaboration across all sectors, reminding Ghanaians that the fight against galamsey is bigger than political lines. “We need a united front to solve this issue. The government, citizens, local communities, and civil society must all join hands to find a way to end this destruction and protect our environment for future generations,” Kufuor urged.
He didn’t just stop there. The former president also emphasized the need for constructive dialogue among the key players, be it local communities, government agencies, or law enforcement, so they can all be on the same page. “Let’s engage in conversations and work together. It’s the only way we’ll find lasting solutions,” he advised, promoting understanding over conflict.
By calling for collective action and cooperation, Kufuor’s stance presents a strong, unified message in the face of a crisis that’s tearing through the nation’s ecological fabric. His words serve as a powerful reminder that the fight against illegal mining is a shared responsibility, one that demands mutual respect, accountability, and above all, a genuine commitment to securing a sustainable future for Ghana.