Dr. Solomon Kwarteng Forkuo, a lecturer at the Kumasi Technical University and a concerned member of the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG), voiced his opposition to the upcoming strike planned by organized labor against illegal mining, known as galamsey.
In an interview on ABC IN THE MORNING, he stated, “We don’t see this (emergency) one as an emergency. Because the water bodies have been destroyed over the years. This government has been in power for almost 8 years, and it is now that you are requesting for this.”
Forkuo questioned the government’s ability to resolve the crisis with the December elections approaching, urging organized labor to explore alternative solutions.
“That is a lazy man’s approach. It is not the best approach.”
Speaking on how the issue could be solved, he added that, “All those mining in river bodies should be stopped, those mining in the forest should be stopped.”
“Even the bigger mining companies doing surface mining should be stopped because should have the capacity to go underground and leave the surface mining to the small scale miners who have the necessary training to do the proper ways,” Forkuo added.
Awulah Serwah, Executive Director of Eco-Conscious Citizens, criticized Forkuo for prioritizing procedural engagements over the immediate danger posed by contaminated water being supplied to Ghanaians.
His comments come in the wake of increasing tensions surrounding the government’s response to illegal mining and its devastating effects on the environment and public health.
The Ghana Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Platform recently expressed their support for the strike, emphasizing the urgent need for government action to address the extensive damage caused by galamsey activities.
As tensions rise, the General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) of TUC-Ghana has directed its members to commence a nationwide strike starting Thursday, October 10, 2024.
While some factions within the Technical Universities Teachers Association (TUSAG) have expressed dissatisfaction with the strike’s organization, others, including UTAG-UG, have pledged their support.
The Ghana Medical Association has opted for a different approach, encouraging its members to refrain from participating in the strike, highlighting the varied responses to this critical issue.
