The Minority in Parliament, through the Parliament Select Committee on Lands and Natural Resources, has expressed strong support for the Presbyterian Church of Ghana’s nationwide anti-galamsey campaign, dubbed “Red Sunday.” The Minority lauded the church for taking a bold stand against illegal mining, highlighting the influential role of religious institutions in shaping national discourse on environmental issues.
In a statement issued by, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, Member of Parliament for Mampong and Lands and Natural Resources – Ranking Member emphasized the importance of collective action in combating the destructive practice of galamsey, which continues to ravage Ghana’s water bodies, forests, and farmlands. They noted that the decision by one of Ghana’s most reputable religious bodies to dedicate a day to the cause underscores the gravity of the crisis facing the nation’s environment.
The statement also served as a reminder that the current government, which came into power largely on promises to end galamsey through its Reset Agenda, has yet to make significant progress. Despite nearly two years in office, the menace persists and has reportedly worsened, causing widespread concern among Ghanaians irrespective of political affiliation.
He called for a non-partisan approach to tackling galamsey, urging that the fight be treated as a national security and governance issue rather than a political pawn. They highlighted that some elements within political circles have inadvertently or deliberately enabled the illegal mining activities, emphasizing the need for stronger institutions, stricter enforcement, and systems insulated from political interference.
“The destruction of our rivers, forests, and farmlands is a national crisis that requires a united response,” the statement read. The Minority welcomed the involvement of faith-based organizations, civil society, traditional leaders, the media, and citizens in this collective effort, noting that the growing role of religious groups signals the urgency of the situation.
The statement also pointed out that past interventions such as Operation Vanguard, GalamStop, and NAIMOS have had limited success, stressing that sustainable progress depends on establishing enduring, apolitical institutions capable of enforcing anti-galamsey measures effectively.
As Ghana faces an environmental crisis of unprecedented scale, the Minority called for renewed national commitment and collective effort to protect the country’s natural resources for future generations.
