A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) focused on environmental conservation has expressed discontent with recent comments made by Nana Ayew Afriyie, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Effiduase-Asokore in the Ashanti Region.

The CSOs criticised Mr. Afriyie's remarks regarding government’s efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, calling it unfortunate and counterproductive to the President’s pledge to tackle this issue.

Ms. Awula Serwa, Coordinator of the CSOs, speaking to Kwame Dwomoh Agyeman on the Class Morning Show on Class91.3FM, Monday, 30 September 2024, raised concerns about such statements from an MP who also chairs the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health.

'As a medical doctor, he should beware of the health risks posed by galamsey activities to communities near affected areas.

"It is troubling when respected figures make comments that undermine the fight against environmental degradation," she said.

Earlier, Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie reaffirmed the NPP government's commitment to supporting legal mining operations.

He emphasised the difference between responsible, regulated mining and illegal practices that harm forests and water bodies, reiterating the government's dedication to enforcing legal frameworks in the sector.

Speaking at a campaign event on September 27, Dr. Ayew Afriyie accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of spreading misinformation in Accra to undermine the government's credibility.

“They know we’re winning seats in mining areas, so they decide to import foreigners to engage in galamsey in Offin and Oda,” he stated, criticising the NDC for not providing proper guidance to miners.

He assured party supporters that the NPP would continue to support legal mining, even in forested areas, despite potential political risks.

Dr. Ayew Afriyie expressed confidence that the NPP would secure all parliamentary seats in mining regions during the 2024 general elections, citing the party's strong connections to the mining sector and commitment to sustainable practices.

"The research conducted in August indicated that the NPP was likely to win in these areas, which explains the NDC's reaction," he said.

“They are confusing Accra, claiming they won’t vote, but we will.”

He added that the NPP will take action against illegal mining, particularly operations conducted by foreigners. “There is a significant difference between small-scale mining and the illegal practices that damage our resources.

We are determined to stop those harming our environment, and we will continue to pursue these operations until all illegal activities are eradicated,” he asserted.