The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) is intensifying pressure on the country’s political leadership to take decisive action against illegal mining operations, known locally as galamsey, warning that failure to act could carry electoral consequences.
Dr. Frank Serebour, President of the GMA, said the association is escalating its campaign to protect public health in regions plagued by unregulated mining, which has led to rising cases of water contamination, respiratory illness, and other preventable diseases.
In an interview with Citi News on Thursday, Dr. Serebour stated that the association would focus on sustained advocacy and voter mobilization, rather than labor strikes, to compel political action.
“Strike actions are temporary and often unsustainable,” Dr. Serebour said. “The only consequence that truly motivates politicians is the fear of losing elections. Our message is clear: if you don’t fight galamsey, we’ll vote you out.”
The GMA has previously called on political parties to publicly declare their positions on illegal mining and commit to binding anti-galamsey policies. While some stakeholders have advocated for industrial action to raise the stakes, the association believes the ballot box remains the most effective tool for accountability.
“We will continue to issue ultimatums and advocate for reforms,” Dr. Serebour said. “This is not a short-term fight—it’s about the health and survival of communities affected by this environmental crisis.”
Illegal mining continues to devastate vast areas of Ghana’s river bodies, forests, and farmlands, despite repeated government crackdowns and military interventions. Critics say enforcement has been inconsistent and often influenced by political interests.
The GMA’s renewed call comes ahead of Ghana’s 2028 general elections, placing the issue of environmental and public health policy squarely on the national agenda.
