The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Joseph Osei-Owusu, known in politics as Joe Wise, has stirred the pot with his strong stance on illegal mining in Ghana, commonly known as galamsey.

The interview, monitored by MyNewsGH.com on Assase Pa radio, has sparked a lively discussion, particularly regarding the consequences for those who pollute the nation’s water bodies through these illicit activities.

The interview host was visibly taken aback by Osei-Owusu’s suggestion that individuals engaged in illegal mining should face lethal consequences.

“These are the killers of our country,” he declared emphatically, reflecting the gravity of the situation as he spoke about the environmental degradation caused by galamsey.

His choice of words was deliberate, underscoring the severe threat that illegal mining poses not only to the environment but also to the health and well-being of communities reliant on clean water sources.

Osei-Owusu recounted a personal encounter with illegal miners who claimed to possess licenses for their activities. However, he pointed out a significant issue: these miners often ignore the boundaries outlined in their licenses, wreaking havoc on water resources in the process.

“They say they have licenses, but they are mining in areas that are clearly not designated for such activities,” he said, highlighting the disconnect between regulations and actual practices on the ground.

This inconsistency has led to dire consequences for the environment, as polluted water bodies can devastate local ecosystems and communities.

While many might view his perspective as extreme, Hon. Osei-Owusu argues that a strong response is necessary to combat the rampant illegal mining that has plagued Ghana for years.

His call for severe penalties reflects a growing frustration among lawmakers and citizens alike, who have witnessed the detrimental effects of galamsey on their communities and resources.

In recent years, the conversation around illegal mining has evolved from mere regulation to a matter of public health and environmental preservation, which Osei-Owusu is keen to emphasize.