Former Ghanaian ambassador to the Netherlands, Dr. Tony Aidoo, has issued a warning to President John Mahama, urging him to decisively end illegal mining (galamsey) before it ravages his cabinet and his government.
Dr. Aidoo directly linked last Wednesday’s fatal military helicopter crash that killed eight people, including two cabinet ministers, to the administration’s battle against galamsey.
“I had personal ties with only three of the victims — Dr. Omane Boamah, Dr. Sarpong, and Dr. Murtala Mohammed. Anytime I think of them, my eyes fill with tears. But I’m not here to eulogise. This is not another sentimental tribute, but a small voice amidst the global outpouring after this avoidable national tragedy,” he stated.
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Speaking on Newsfile on Saturday, August 9, the former Ambassador emphasised that the disaster was not an act of God, but rather the result of human failings.
“Faith teaches us to honour the dead, but we must also ask why they died. People say, ‘The Lord gave, and the Lord takes.’ I disagree — God did not take them; we did, through a preventable mistake,” he said.
The crash claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, and three crew members — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
“Why were they in the air? Because they were on their way to fight galamsey. President Mahama must crush this menace before it takes more members of his cabinet,” Dr. Aidoo stated.
He argued that the most meaningful tribute to the victims would be immediate, decisive action.
“Yes, God gives life, but He does not take innocent lives in this way. People perish through destruction or lifestyle choices. Mr. President, what are you waiting for? As Kwame Mpianim suggested, even a three-month ban on galamsey could be a start.
“My first reaction after hearing the confirmation of their deaths was to send a direct message to President Mahama: these eight patriotic souls died in the fight against galamsey. For God’s sake, don’t let them die in vain. End galamsey now — that’s the greatest tribute we can offer them.”