Lands and Forestry minister joins ‘national red day’ against galamsey

The 21-day ultimatum for all galamsey activities to cease ends tomorrow, Wednesday, and the sector minister who issued the ultimatum is backing a campaign asking all to wear red to protest the activities of illegal miners.

The United Press for Development (UPD) declared Wednesday 19th April, 2017 as a ‘National Red Day’ as a sign of declaration of war against the menace called galamsey. Lands and Forestry Minister, Peter Amewu has also declared his intention to wear ‘red’ apparel tomorrow.

Giving update on his ultimatum on Onua FM morning show ‘Yen Nsem Pa’ on Tuesday, Peter Amewu described the ultimatum as “encouraging”, saying the fight a against galamsey is the one that the country needs to win at all cost and must involve everyone.

He said the galamsey is a threat to the very survival of the populace, hence his resolve to collaborate with any group of persons or individuals who are ready to help stop galamsey.

“Is a fight we need to win and we must do that collectively, I know government will walk the talk, so yes tomorrow, I will join the National Red Day to show we are all ready to put this practice behind us, the time is now.”

The Minister has also indicated that, government will not shield any so-called “big men” or politicians who are either directly or remotely involved in the galamsey business.

He was emphatic that few people would not be allowed to destroy the environment for their selfish gain while the rest suffer.

Asked if he will approve of a radical approach in dealing with operators of galamsey, Mr Peter Amewu noted that “that could also be another means which is necessary”.