Politicians involved in galamsey will face the law – EPA

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to snapping down on illegal mining activities, stating that no one, regardless of status or political affiliation, will be spared if found guilty of environmental violations.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Agency, Prof. Nana Ama Klutse, made this declaration in an interview on April 1, emphasizing the agency’s unwavering stance in protecting the environment.

She argued that the agency is focused on their mandate to protect the environment and coordinate all activities that affect it. Adding that it is their sole responsibility and mandate to protect the environment no matter who is involved, whether legally or illegally.

Prof. Klutse further explained that while the agency actively monitors environmental activities, it also acts on complaints from communities and companies, assuring the public that any reports of illegal mining would be investigated and those found culpable would be held accountable.

In a statement she said that, “So far, they have not received any complaints about politicians being involved in illegal mining. However, the EPA, apart from conducting its monitoring, also responds to complaints and if they receive reports from communities or companies, they will take the necessary action, including prosecuting offenders who violate compliance regulations”.

Restating the agency’s stance on fairness and accountability, Prof. Klutse made it clear that politicians involved in illegal mining would not be shielded from the law but rather apply the law like they would to any other Ghanaian.

The EPA’s firm position comes at a time when illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, continues to pose severe environmental threats, including deforestation, water pollution, and land degradation.