Micheal Kojo Peprah, President of the Concerned Small- Scale Miners Association, has called on Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the upcoming December 7 general elections, to stop acting as if he is not part of the current government. 

Mr Peprah emphasized that Dr. Bawumia remains the Vice President of Ghana and therefore holds significant influence over government policies.

The concerned miners expressed frustration with Dr. Bawumia’s continued promises to their Association, arguing that he already has the authority to implement changes in the small-scale mining sector. 

Mr Peprah highlighted that the sector thrived under the previous administration led by former President John Dramani Mahama, with many miners becoming millionaires.

 In contrast, he said, the sector has declined under Dr. Bawumia’s tenure, resulting in increased poverty among miners.

“Dr. Bawumia is now promising to make small-scale miners millionaires in his next government. We were millionaires, but the actions of this government, especially the fight against galamsey and the implementation of community mining, have contributed to the sector’s collapse,” Mr Peprah stated.

Speaking on the Citizen Show hosted by Nana Bobie Ansah on Accra 100.5 FM on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, Mr Peprah noted that former President Mahama's plans for the sector seem more promising. 

Following a breakfast meeting with Mr Mahama, it was revealed that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has comprehensive plans to revitalize small-scale mining, including decentralizing the licensing process.

Mr Peprah criticized the Vice President for lacking a coherent plan and relying on empty promises.

 He announced that the Association would organize a mining conference where leaders from both major political parties would be invited to present their policy documents, allowing members to make informed decisions.

“Unlike the Vice President’s promises, the NDC’s approach under John Dramani Mahama includes decentralizing licensing for small-scale miners, which is a practical solution,” Mr Peprah added