By Vivian Amoah
A political science lecturer at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Professor Samuel Abavare, has called for the immediate resignation of Members of Parliament allegedly linked to the recent military assault on anti-galamsey task force members at Hwediem in the Ahafo Region.
According to Prof. Abavare, the involvement of lawmakers in acts that undermine the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) is a betrayal of public trust and an affront to Ghana’s democratic governance.
“The attack at Hwediem is a clear indication that some political actors are using their positions to protect illegal mining interests. Any MP found complicit must step aside to allow for transparent investigations,” he said in an interview with the media on Monday.
He argued that the credibility of Parliament and the government’s anti-galamsey campaign hinges on the swift and decisive handling of the matter. Prof. Abavare also urged the leadership of Parliament and the security agencies to cooperate in ensuring justice for the victims of the attack.
The Hwediem incident, which occurred last week, reportedly involved armed soldiers who stormed a local anti-galamsey task force checkpoint, leaving several individuals injured. The attack has since sparked outrage among residents and civil society groups, who are demanding accountability and the prosecution of those behind it.
Prof. Abavare emphasized that the ongoing galamsey menace continues to destroy farmlands, pollute rivers, and threaten livelihoods across the country, warning that political interference will only worsen the situation.
“Ghana cannot win the galamsey fight if politicians themselves are part of the problem,” he concluded.
