Haruna Iddrisu Urges Judiciary to Jail Corrupt Officials in Galamsey Crackdown
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has called on the judiciary to impose custodial sentences on public officials and politicians found guilty of engaging in illegal mining, popularly known as ‘galamsey’.
Speaking at the Annual Chief Justice Mentoring Programme held at the Supreme Court in Accra, Mr. Iddrisu emphasized the need for a united front in combating the menace. “We need to elevate and up our game. The Executive and the President alone cannot succeed in fighting galamsey. We need the judiciary to stand side by side in solidarity,” he stated.
The Minister urged courts to decisively punish offenders, stating, “Should the court find any good evidence on any public official or any politician involved in it, my Lords don’t hesitate to exercise the gavel and punish adequately so that it becomes deterrent for the rest of our society.”
This year’s mentoring programme, themed “Advocating Greener Sustainable Justice: The Environment and Justice”, drew participation from 11 schools across the Greater Accra and Western Regions, alongside members of the Orange Girls groups from Accra and Kumasi, and the United Nations Youth Association.
Mr. Iddrisu also tasked students to actively support environmental protection efforts, highlighting the devastating impact of galamsey. “Galamsey is destroying water bodies, even the quality of our cocoa has been compromised. Preserve the environment,” he implored.
He underscored the importance of environmental education for future generations, adding, “As we educate the next generation, we must help them understand that protecting the environment is not optional, it is a moral and civic duty and increasingly a legal one.” He stressed that Ghana’s success hinged on winning the fight against illegal mining.
The Minister lauded the Chief Justice, Paul BaffoeBonnie, and his predecessors for strengthening the mentoring programme, recognizing its role in demystifying the judicial process for young people. He encouraged students to prioritize their studies while upholding strong values of patriotism and integrity.
He further noted the positive impact of interacting with legal professionals, building confidence and fostering an appreciation for public service. Mr. Iddrisu welcomed the establishment of Justice Clubs in schools, promising continued support from the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service.
Professor Justice Olivia AnkuTsede, Chair of the Mentoring Committee, highlighted the critical link between the environment and justice, emphasizing the national concern surrounding illegal mining. “Galamsey is a threat to our national heritage, our public health, laws and the very future of our communities,” she stated.
According to Prof. AnkuTsede, the destructive practices are leading to polluted rivers, disappearing forests, and devastated farmlands. She warned, “If this generation allows these practices to continue, then the next generation would inherit barren lands, polluted waters and weakened institutions.”
She concluded by stressing the need for collective action, asserting, “The fight against illegal mining requires collective effort and it demands the participation of the young people, the future custodians of our nation’s values and resources and institutions.” She emphasized that sustainability is more than just a slogan; it’s a fundamental responsibility.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
