The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has urged President John Dramani Mahama to match his words on illegal mining with concrete action, accusing his administration of hypocrisy in the ongoing fight against galamsey.

President Mahama, speaking at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards Ceremony in Manhyia on Saturday, November 11, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining and safeguarding the country’s natural resources.

However, in a swift response, NPP Deputy General Secretary Haruna Mohammed called on the President to “stop utilising illegal gold from illegal miners” and to demonstrate genuine commitment to addressing the escalating menace.

Speaking to Citi News in Kumasi, Mr. Mohammed expressed disappointment that the President’s repeated assurances had not translated into meaningful results on the ground.

“The President should walk the talk in the fight against galamsey. He has played with the emotions of Ghanaians in opposition, he promised to declare a state of emergency, but now that he’s in power, what has changed?” he questioned.

Mr. Mohammed further criticised the government’s handling of the issue, citing increasing attacks on members of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) as evidence of the administration’s lack of seriousness.

“People are attacking NAIMOS operatives, yet the President continues to make promises without firm action. He should stop playing with the emotions of Ghanaians and walk the talk. Galamsey has worsened under Mahama and the NDC administration, and it is a shame,” he added.

Meanwhile, NPP Director of Communications Richard Ahiagbah has called for a unified, bipartisan approach to tackling the menace, emphasising that illegal mining affects all Ghanaians regardless of political affiliation.