A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Louis Cecilia Adu-Poku, has criticised President John Dramani Mahama’s government over what he described as the worsening illegal mining, or galamsey, menace in Ghana.
According to the priest, the government has failed to deliver on President Mahama’s earlier promise to tackle illegal mining within his first 100 days in office.
Adu-Poku, who is associated with the Archdiocese of Kumasi, made the comments during a church service, where he urged the President to listen to critical voices and take stronger measures to protect the country’s environment.
“You promised to stop galamsey within your first 100 days, we’ve gone beyond that… Galamsey has worsened under your tenure,” he said.
The priest also raised concerns about the growing difficulty of openly criticising the situation, claiming that people who speak out on national issues are sometimes subjected to insults and attacks, particularly on social media.
He urged Mahama to pay attention to what he described as discerning voices and use such counsel to guide his decisions.
“Respectfully give listening ear to people who will tell you the truth. This nation in all indication is not going the right direction,” Adu-Poku said.
The Catholic priest further warned the President about what he described as activities by unidentified individuals allegedly working behind the scenes to influence the direction of the country.
“Some of us have prayed. And we know people who are working behind the scenes to turn this nation over,” he stated, without naming the individuals or groups he was referring to.
Adu-Poku encouraged Mahama to use the remainder of his presidency to make decisions that would serve the national interest and help secure a positive legacy.
“It is either you allow God to make a name with you or disgrace yourself before you leave the scene,” he said.
Despite his criticism, the priest assured the President of his prayers, while stressing that Mahama must remain open to criticism and act decisively on issues affecting the country.
His comments come amid continuing public concern over illegal mining and its impact on Ghana’s rivers, forests and other natural resources.
