The government has being urged by the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) to begin prosecuting those detained for illicit mining activities, or galamsey.
UTAG emphasized in a statement the urgency of taking prompt, firm measures to discourage others from participating in illicit mining.
"While the government's current efforts are praiseworthy, much more focused and long-term interventions are required to have the expected impact on Ghanaians." It is unclear if the government's agenda, which calls for the creation of additional special tribunals to speed up the prosecution of illegal miners, would be implemented.
The statement said, in part, that "it is also yet to be realized that presidential candidates from political parties have signed a national pact in support of the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana as per the government's roadmap."
The announcement follows demands for the association to reverse its decision over an ongoing strike action in the battle against galamsey made by the pro-UTAG group "Silent Majority."
The group, which consists of fifty-seven people, has issued a three-day ultimatum to the national leadership, which ends on Friday, October 18, 2024.
The strike will, however, reportedly go until next week, when UTAG says a decision regarding the next course of action will be made. While applauding the government's efforts, UTAG has suggested more forceful measures.
In order to secure a comprehensive strategy to halting the destruction, particularly by illicit mining activities, we urge the government to take extra decisive initiatives, such as 1. Adding farmlands and forest reserves to the task force's mandate.
"Hurrying up the parliamentary repeal of L.I. 2462 to prohibit mining in forest reserves." 3. Launching an instant legal action against those detained for engaged in illicit mining activities. 4. Talking with UTAG about ideas on how to combat illicit mining while advancing ethical and sustainable mining for inclusive development, according to UTAG.
Sauce: Adomonline