We must not allow politics to cloud our judgment when considering actions that could potentially shut down the economy under the guise of fighting Galamsey or illegal mining.
Have our union leaders fully considered the broader implications of their strike actions on the economy and livelihoods of ordinary Ghanaians? Who told them that strike actions could put an end to people mining illegally in our water bodies and forest reserves?
Flexing their muscles at the government and attempting to blackmail the political establishment to serve the parochial interests of some union leaders undermines the constitutional authority vested in the President.
What sense does it make for organised labour to call for a nationwide strike just two months before crucial elections, especially when it is obvious that no administration can magically solve the issue of illegal mining in such a short period?
Rather than resorting to strikes, why don’t union leaders address the root of the problem by engaging directly with the miners and traditional leaders, who better understand the economic realities and the real challenges in protecting our water bodies and forest reserves?
It seems that some union leaders have been swayed by ulterior motives, and if that’s not the case, they should provide clear justification for their questionable stance on this issue. The position of these union leaders remains highly questionable.
Dr Richard Yeboah Asante
The writer is a member of the national communications team of the NPP
