Martin Kpebu, a private legal practitioner, has expressed skepticism regarding President Akufo-Addo's commitment to tackling illegal mining, commonly known as "galamsey."

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He argued that the president's 2017 declaration to put his presidency on the line to combat the issue was more of a political slogan than a serious pledge.In July 2017, during a workshop for traditional leaders in Accra, President Akufo-Addo publicly stated his willingness to stake his presidency on the fight against galamsey.

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“I have said it in the Cabinet, and perhaps this is the first time I am making this public, that I am prepared to put my Presidency on the line on this matter.”

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This led to the formation of military task forces like ‘Operation Galamstop,’ which employed measures such as the controversial burning of excavators.

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However, after facing public backlash, the policy was halted, and the government's efforts to address illegal mining appeared to lose momentum.As the illegal mining problem has persisted, many rivers in Ghana are now polluted, and the Ghana Water Company has warned of potential water shortages if the situation continues.Speaking on TV3’s Key Points on Saturday, September 7, Kpebu contended that President Akufo-Addo’s statement lacked genuine intent and was primarily for show.“Akufo-Addo never meant his i will put my presidency on the line comment. he was merely sloganeering,” Kpebu noted.

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