Responsible Small-Scale Miners Association call planned Anti-Galamsey strike “politically motivated,” and are set to protest

The Responsible Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana has announced plans to stage a demonstration against Organised Labour on October 12. The demonstration comes in response to Organised Labour’s scheduled nationwide strike on October 10, which is intended to push the government to take stronger measures against illegal mining, also known as *galamsey*.

The Association argues that small-scale mining is legal under the Minerals and Mining Act 2006 (Act 703), and that the actions of a few irresponsible miners should not lead to the collective punishment of all small-scale miners. “The wrongs of a recalcitrant few cannot be used to ban all other small-scale mining firms undertaking responsible mining,” the Association stated.

In a formal letter to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Association described Organised Labour’s planned strike as “counterproductive, politically motivated and an attempt to shut down our source of livelihood.” The Association emphasized that while they recognize the environmental damage caused by illegal mining, they believe that Organised Labour’s approach is not the right solution to the issue.

“Organised labour’s stance is not the solution to this century-long problem,” the Association said. They called for a more comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes of illegal mining and urged Organised Labour to collaborate with stakeholders in developing practical solutions. Instead of striking, they suggested working together to address the threats posed by illegal mining.

Meanwhile, Organised Labour has remained firm in its decision to proceed with the strike. Despite a meeting with President Nana Akufo-Addo on October 4, where the president requested more time to address the concerns, Organised Labour’s leadership has stated that their position remains unchanged.

Spokesperson for Organised Labour, Joshua Ansah, reaffirmed their stance during a press briefing in Accra on October 7. “We had a discussion, we said by the tenth of October if nothing has been done there will be a nationwide strike. Our strike remains unchanged; we are of the view that what the government has proposed to do does not adequately address our demands,” he said.

Ansah further stressed that the strike will proceed unless the government imposes a complete ban on illegal mining. “The president discussed the issues with us, and our demand is clear. If nothing happens, we will proceed with our strike,” he reiterated.

As tensions rise between small-scale miners and organised labour, the country braces for potential disruptions in the coming days.