NDC’s Hamza Suhuyini: Staffer Complicity Weakened Anti-Galamsey Efforts
Hamza Suhuyini, a member of the National Communications Team of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), says the credibility of Ghana’s anti-galamsey campaigns was badly damaged by allegations of complicity involving presidential staffers in previous administrations.
Speaking on GBC’s Current Agenda, Suhuyini recalled how frequent reports of staffers allegedly taking bribes to protect illegal mining operations eroded public trust. He noted that at the height of the scandal, citizens doubted government’s sincerity in dealing with the menace.
“At one point, we woke up almost daily to allegations of presidential staffers receiving money to allow illegal mining activities to continue,” he said. “That level of complicity at the very top made it difficult for citizens to believe in government’s commitment.”
According to him, such perceptions fed growing calls from civil society groups for a state of emergency, as confidence in government’s handling of the crisis steadily declined.
Suhuyini, however, praised the current Presidency for showing greater openness to engage chiefs, youth groups, and other stakeholders in the fight. He stressed that political elites must never be shielded from accountability.
“The fight against illegal mining cannot succeed if presidential staffers and those close to power are perceived to be complicit. The Presidency must set the highest standard of integrity and demonstrate zero tolerance for interference in enforcement,” Suhuyini emphasized.
He urged stronger transparency and accountability mechanisms to ensure Ghana’s natural resources are managed free from political manipulation.
