The President of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Dr. Frank Serebour, has called on Ghanaians to use the ballot box as a powerful tool to hold politicians accountable in the ongoing fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Dr. Serebour explained that the GMA’s decision to join the national campaign against galamsey stems from its direct impact on public health. According to him, unchecked mining activities continue to endanger communities by polluting water bodies, destroying farmland, and escalating preventable disease burdens across the country.
Highlighting the persistence of the menace, he noted that galamsey remains widespread despite years of government interventions. He argued that political pressure—particularly electoral consequences—offers the most effective and lasting deterrent, as compared to industrial actions such as strikes.
Speaking to Citi News on Thursday, September 18, 2025, Dr. Serebour disclosed that the GMA intends to intensify advocacy and public mobilisation campaigns to demand concrete steps from political leaders.
“When the GMA asked political parties to declare their positions and sign a pact, we wanted clarity on where they stand. Some called for strike action, but strikes aren’t sustainable. The only consequence politicians fear is electoral loss. My message is: if you don’t fight it, we’ll boot you out,” he stated.
He emphasised that while the GMA will not hesitate to issue ultimatums and demand reforms, strikes alone cannot secure long-term change in the fight against galamsey. Rather, sustained civic pressure, advocacy, and voter action are needed to compel political leaders to adopt responsible policies and demonstrate genuine commitment to protecting the environment.
Dr. Serebour concluded that the GMA will remain active in speaking out and driving advocacy. “We should continue to apply pressure. We will continue to talk and to advocate,” he said, underscoring the association’s resolve to keep the issue high on the national agenda.
