Former Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker, has revealed that he went without food for two days following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight people, including two cabinet ministers.
He explained that the news left him deeply saddened and unable to eat, given the circumstances surrounding the victims’ deaths.
According to him, the victims were on their way to launch a programme aimed at tackling illegal mining, an issue that has long posed challenges for the country.
Mr. Duker noted that the previous government had introduced several interventions to address galamsey, but these efforts fell short largely because the fight has been overly politicised.
He stressed that the war against illegal mining can only be effective if removed from political influence.
He also cautioned against blaming Ministers of Lands and Natural Resources for the persistence of galamsey, pointing out that they are primarily responsible for policy implementation, not law enforcement.
“When it comes to crime, it is the responsibility of the security agencies to arrest and prosecute offenders,” he stated.
Mr. Duker added that the battle against illegal mining remains difficult because the financial gains are so high that government alternatives cannot compete. He reiterated his belief that depoliticising the fight is the only way forward.
Source: Kwame Kulenu
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