Former President John Dramani Mahama has sounded a clarion call, alleging that district chief executives (DCEs) and members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) have reportedly seized control of mining operations in Ghana, sparking concerns about the integrity of the country's mining sector.

Speaking during an address in the Ashanti Region, Mahama expressed deep apprehension over what he described as the alarming trend of DCEs and NPP members monopolizing mining concessions for their personal gain. He voiced his dismay at the apparent lack of oversight and regulation, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention to address the situation.

According to Mahama, the unchecked allocation of mining concessions to select individuals within the NPP ranks poses a significant threat to Ghana's natural resources and environmental sustainability. He highlighted the adverse effects of unregulated mining activities on water bodies, noting with concern the increasing turbidity of water bodies in the southern region of the country.

Mahama pledged to take decisive action to combat illegal mining and protect Ghana's land and water resources if elected back into office. He outlined plans to establish district offices dedicated to processing mining license applications and cracking down on illegal mining operations, aiming to restore transparency and accountability to the sector.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer's remarks come amid mounting concerns over the proliferation of illegal mining activities and environmental degradation in Ghana. The issue of illegal mining, commonly known as "galamsey," has long been a contentious issue, with successive governments grappling to find lasting solutions to curb its detrimental effects on the environment and livelihoods.

Mahama's pledge to prioritize the regulation of the mining sector underscores the critical importance of sustainable resource management and environmental conservation in Ghana's development agenda.

As the country prepares for the upcoming elections, Mahama's promises to address illegal mining and protect natural resources are likely to resonate with voters concerned about environmental sustainability and responsible governance.