The Coordinator of Eco-Conscious Citizens, Awula Serwah, has described the 20-year prison sentence handed to Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, over illegal mining as a landmark decision that should serve as a strong deterrent to those destroying Ghana’s environment.
Speaking on Gold Morning Conversation, Ms. Serwah said while convictions are never a cause for celebration, the focus must remain on the devastating environmental and public health consequences of illegal mining.
“If finally sanity has prevailed and Chairman Wontumi has been arrested, prosecuted and found guilty, then this should send a strong message to anyone involved in ecocide that justice will prevail,” she said.
She argued that the scale of environmental destruction caused by galamsey has been evident for years and called for sustained enforcement to ensure those responsible are held accountable.
Ms. Serwah noted that Chairman Wontumi was not the only individual linked to allegations of illegal mining, referring to claims made by former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, involving several public officials under the previous administration.
She urged the Police and other investigative agencies to pursue all persons implicated in illegal mining activities, irrespective of their political affiliation or status.
“It is not sufficient to lament. MCEs, DCEs and Ministers who have allegedly been involved should be thoroughly investigated, and where there is evidence, they must be prosecuted to demonstrate the seriousness with which the country is treating this issue,” she stated.
The Eco-Conscious Citizens Coordinator also expressed concern about the growing public health impact of illegal mining, citing reports that kidney disease cases at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital have increased significantly.
According to her, illegal mining has contaminated more than 60 per cent of Ghana’s water bodies, contributed to rising kidney-related illnesses and resulted in birth defects in some communities.
Ms. Serwah stressed that Chairman Wontumi should not become the sole face of the fight against galamsey while other alleged perpetrators escape accountability.
She further warned that the destruction has extended into protected areas, including the Anwiaso Forest Reserve, underscoring the urgent need for stronger enforcement.
Calling on political leaders to rise above partisan interests, she urged all parties to prioritise the country’s long-term environmental and economic wellbeing.
“It is very disappointing that any political party would fail to put Ghana and the welfare of its people first. Patriots must look at the bigger picture and do what is right for the country,” she said.
Ms. Serwah expressed hope that the sentence would discourage others from engaging in illegal mining.
“This should be a deterrent to anyone thinking of engaging in galamsey. If you are arrested, prosecuted and found guilty, this is the kind of sentence that awaits you,” she concluded.
Story by: Ruth Quaye
