My video on galamsey was doctored to paint me black – Dr. Ayew Afriye

The Member of Parliament for Effiduase-Asokore in the Ashanti Region, Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie, has denied endorsing illegal mining, commonly known as "galamsey," in any form.

He asserted that individuals involved in illegal mining must be stopped to prevent further environmental damage and protect water sources.

Speaking to the media in Kumasi, Dr. Afriyie emphasized that responsible, legal, and environmentally sustainable small-scale mining should be allowed to continue. 

"There is no way I will endorse any illegality. I believe that those engaged in legal and legitimate mining, which does not destroy the flora and fauna of the forest, must not be lumped together with irresponsible miners and thrown under the bus," he said.

Doctoring of video

The MP expressed disappointment over the manipulation of his remarks, stating that although he had clearly explained the need to distinguish between illegal mining and responsible, legal mining, some media outlets had edited his speech to create a false impression.

"Anyone who carefully watched my address as broadcast on Joy News and other media outlets would realize that some other media houses pieced together my speech in a mischievous manner to achieve a malicious impression," Dr. Afriye said.

Dr. Afriye, a trained medical professional, stressed that he understands the dangers of mining near water bodies and would never support activities that harm the health of people or the environment.

He reiterated that while illegal mining practices must be curbed, those engaged in lawful and responsible mining should be encouraged to continue.

"We should be able to take responsibility in every sector of the economy, including mining, so that we put a stop to those perpetrating illegal activities and support those carrying out responsible and lawful operations," Dr. Afriye concluded.

Watch the video below;

We won't stop people who indulge in galamsey today, and we won't stop them tomorrow. There's a difference between mining in the forest and mining in waterbodies... - Ayew Afriye (MP, Effiduase/Asokore) #GHOneNews #EIBNetwork #NPP #GHOneTV #ElectionHub #NDC #StopGalamseyNow… pic.twitter.com/cE9YhaqmGf

— GHOne TV (@ghonetv) September 27, 2024