A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Louis Cecilia Adu-Poku, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to urgently reassess his government’s approach to illegal mining and listen to voices willing to criticise his administration in the national interest.
The priest, who is with the Archdiocese of Kumasi, said Ghana was not heading in the right direction and warned that the continued deterioration of the illegal mining situation could undermine President Mahama’s legacy.
Rev. Fr. Adu-Poku made the remarks during a church service while expressing concern over the state of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, under the current administration.
He recalled President Mahama’s commitment to tackle the menace within his first 100 days in office, arguing that the situation had instead worsened.
“Respectfully give listening ear to people who will tell you the truth. This nation in all indication is not going the right direction,” he said.
“You promised to stop Galamsey within your first 100 days, we’ve gone beyond that… Galamsey has worsened under your tenure,” he added.
The priest also expressed concern about what he described as attempts to silence or discredit citizens who raise criticisms of the government.
According to him, some people who speak openly about national issues are subjected to insults and attacks, particularly on social media, instead of having their concerns considered on their merits.
He therefore called on the President to pay attention to what he described as “discerning voices” and ensure that decisions taken by his administration are guided by the broader national interest.
Rev. Fr. Adu-Poku further raised concerns about alleged efforts by unidentified individuals or groups to influence the direction of the country from behind the scenes.
“Some of us have prayed. And we know people who are working behind the scenes to turn this nation over,” he said, without naming those he was referring to.
The priest urged President Mahama to make effective use of the remaining years of his administration to establish a positive record in office.
“You have a few years to leave the scene. It is either you allow God to make a name with you or disgrace yourself before you leave the scene,” he cautioned.
Rev. Fr. Adu-Poku, however, assured the President of prayers, saying the church would continue to pray for him as he leads the country.
“On our part we are going to pray for you because God has chosen us to do that,” he said.
