The Convenor of the One Ghana Movement, Senyo Hosi, has described the violent confrontation between residents and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) at Hwidiem in the Ahafo Region as a defining test of President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking on the JoyNews AM Show, Mr. Hosi said the government’s response to the incident—particularly if it involves figures with political ties—would determine whether President Mahama truly has the resolve to dismantle the networks behind the illegal mining menace.

“This is the biggest test. The President himself said he needed to deal with the kingpins, and I agree with him strategically; you kill the snake at the head, not chip off the skin. But it’s been ten months, and we’ve not seen the kingpins yet. These are the kingpins, Mr President,” Mr. Hosi asserted.

He cautioned that a failure to take firm and impartial action against those responsible for the Hwidiem disturbances would send a clear message that the administration’s anti-galamsey efforts lack credibility.
“His ability to deal with his own people will be a sign of his real commitment. If he can’t do that ruthlessly, then there’s no hope. At that point, we’ll take our decision and demand accountability,” he added.

The comments follow violent clashes over the weekend between some youth and members of the NAIMOS task force at the Hwidiem Police Station, during which vehicles—including one belonging to the Hwidiem Zongo Chief—were vandalised.

Mr. Hosi stressed that Ghana’s future depends on strong and principled leadership capable of confronting vested interests that perpetuate environmental destruction.

“If we can’t hold our leaders accountable on this, we risk losing not just our lands and water bodies but the future of our children,” he warned.