By Elsie Appiah-Osei, GNA
Accra, Mar. 06, GNA—The New Patriotic Party Minority Caucus in Parliament has expressed disappointment and concern over the current state of Ghana’s economy and security, particularly the plights facing farmers and the escalating galamsey crisis, as the country marks its 69th Independence Anniversary.
In a statement issued by the leadership of the Minority Caucus, it said, “Independence is not a historical event; it is a living national responsibility. Each generation must renew its covenant with the founding promise to build a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous Ghana.”
The statement highlighted the alleged struggles of farmers, particularly cocoa farmers, who had been hit by a slash in the farmgate price of cocoa by over GH¢1,000 per bag.
“The decision by this government to slash the farmgate price of cocoa… is an act of unconscionable cruelty towards those who can least afford it,” the statement said.
The statement also condemned the government’s handling of the galamsey crisis, saying, “The Minority is profoundly alarmed by the accelerating destruction caused by illegal mining… This crisis has long ceased to be merely an environmental concern; it is a national security threat, a public health emergency, and an intergenerational injustice.”
The Minority called for immediate and decisive action to address the crisis, including the alleged destruction of seized galamsey equipment and full disclosure of those involved.
The statement also expressed solidarity with Ghanaians in the Gulf region, saying, “Our working people in the Gulf are not forgotten; they remain an inseparable part of our national family.”
It urged all Ghanaians to renew their commitment to the founding ideals of the Republic, saying, “The promise of independence will only be fulfilled when every Ghanaian—especially our youth—enjoys dignity through opportunity, purpose in labour, and a meaningful contribution to our sovereign story.”
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei