The National Youth Organiser of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Mark Ewusi-Akwa, has expressed disappointment in the Ghana Armed Forces for what he describes as their failure to effectively combat illegal mining, also known as galamsey.

Speaking on the Oman Ghana Nkosuo show on Accra-based CTV hosted by Obaapa Yaa Titi, Mr Ewusi-Akwa questioned the commitment of the military in the ongoing fight against illegal mining, saying their performance raises concerns about their readiness to defend the country in times of greater national crisis.

According to him, the primary role of the military is to protect the state from external threats, maintain territorial integrity, and provide humanitarian assistance during disasters.

He argued, however, that the devastation caused by galamsey to Ghana’s lands, water bodies, and ecosystems also poses a serious threat to national security and survival.

“If the democracy of this country fails us and the military takes over due to a coup d’état, is this how they would run the country?” he asked.

“Even galamsey, which is just a small portion of our problems, they cannot handle.

So how would they manage the entire affairs of the state?”

Ewusi-Akwa further alleged that some chiefs and traditional leaders in mining communities have revealed that individuals who secure mining licenses sometimes receive protection from certain military officers.

This, he said, has deepened his disappointment in the Armed Forces.

He lamented that while the ecosystem continues to be destroyed through illegal mining, the military, which is sometimes deployed to assist in anti-galamsey operations, appears to be ineffective or complicit in some areas.

“The military is supposed to defend the nation, engage in combat when necessary, and assist during national emergencies. But in cases like this, where is the military?” he questioned.

Ewusi-Akwa’s remarks add to the growing public debate over the effectiveness of state institutions, including the security services, in curbing illegal mining and protecting Ghana’s environment.