Dennis Miracles Aboagye, an aide to Mahamudu Bawumia, has ignited fresh political debate after alleging that individuals closely linked to the current administration are deeply involved in illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking during an appearance on a morning television programme on Wednesday, April 29, Aboagye claimed he possesses firsthand knowledge of widespread impunity within the illegal mining sector. He suggested that the scale of operations and the apparent lack of enforcement point to systemic failures at the highest levels of governance.
According to him, some “very top, top officials” associated with the government are actively participating in galamsey, a claim he says he will substantiate in the coming days by naming those involved. However, his remarks have drawn mixed reactions, with some observers questioning why he has yet to provide concrete evidence to support such serious allegations.
Aboagye also raised concerns about the handling of excavators imported into the country for mining purposes. He dismissed official assurances that the machines are being effectively tracked, alleging instead that they have been released back to operators without proper accountability—potentially fueling further environmental degradation.
He warned that the consequences of illegal mining are becoming increasingly severe, particularly for Ghana’s water bodies. Rivers across the country, he said, are either heavily polluted or have ceased flowing altogether, posing a significant threat to livelihoods, agriculture, and water security.
Despite the urgency of his claims, critics argue that Aboagye’s statements risk deepening political tensions without immediate proof. Some have called on him to promptly present evidence or report his findings to the appropriate investigative authorities, rather than making public declarations that could inflame partisan divisions.
The comments come at a time when illegal mining remains a major national concern, with successive governments facing criticism over their handling of the issue. Aboagye’s assertions are likely to intensify scrutiny on both political actors and enforcement agencies, as the country continues to grapple with the environmental and economic impact of galamsey.
Whether his promised revelations will substantiate his claims or further fuel controversy remains to be seen.
