Report by Nana POKU
The leader and founder of All People's Congress, Hassan Ayariga, has proposed a complete ban on
mining in this country as a result of widespread devastation of our ecosystem and water bodies
Speaking to the media after filing his documents to contest the upcoming presidential elections at the
EC's office in Accra, the flagbearer condemned the wanton degradation of our lands and rivers with
impunity.
He posited that the country is on the verge of total destruction. He said that this destruction will only be
stalled if the government places a fiat to stop the current spate of uncontrolled illegal and indiscriminate
mining at every corner of the country.
The destruction, he argued is devastating and destroying all hope of the future generations.
"The APC government will not allow the country to deteriorate to this level where our water bodies are
and lands are subjects of annihilation by recalcitrant gold diggers who do not fear anyone,” he said.
"When I was a child, we used to call this country the 'The Gold Coast ', which means a land of gold. But it
doesn't mean we can destroy our country because of this gold. Rather, we must find a way of mining it
devoid of any mishap and destruction. It must be sanitised in such a way that the people and the country
can benefit," he said.
The presidential candidate advocated for the sector to be properly dealt with as the future of this country
is at risk
He opined that if nothing is done now, we will exist as a nation.
On the main issue, he called on all political parties to play by the rules to ensure peace during and after
the elections.
He also urged the EC to be up and doing to make the contest free, fair, and transparent to give
opportunities to all contestants in the race.
The flagbearer urged other contestants to talk on issues but not on insults to inflame passions and anger.
He was optimistic to clinch victory come December 7th when the elections are held via the tenets of fair,
free, and transparent means.
