The Jatikay Centre for Human Security and Peace Building has welcomed the conviction and 20-year prison sentence handed to Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, for illegal mining activities at Samreboi, describing the judgment as a significant milestone in Ghana’s fight against galamsey.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Adib Saani, the Centre said it has consistently advocated for strong political will to combat illegal mining and the prosecution of all offenders regardless of their political affiliation, social status or influence.
According to the Centre, the judgment demonstrates that the rule of law can prevail over impunity and sends a clear message that no individual should be above the law in the country’s efforts to protect its natural resources.
The statement, however, stressed that a single conviction would not be enough to eliminate illegal mining, noting that accountability must become a consistent feature of Ghana’s anti-galamsey campaign if the country’s forests, rivers and environment are to be safeguarded.
The Jatikay Centre expressed hope that the ruling would usher in a new era where the fight against galamsey is pursued fairly, consistently and free from political interference.
It emphasized that only an impartial approach would inspire public confidence and produce lasting results.
The Centre also commended the judiciary for upholding the rule of law and urged all relevant state institutions to sustain the momentum by ensuring that every individual involved in illegal mining is investigated and prosecuted without fear or favour.
It maintained that a non-partisan and consistent enforcement of the law remains essential to winning the battle against galamsey and preserving Ghana’s natural heritage.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com