Omane Boamah would have solved galamsey crisis- Okudzeto Ablakwa
Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has paid tribute to the late Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, highlighting his strong determination to tackle illegal mining and his unwavering stance on deploying military personnel to combat galamsey operators.
Speaking on CitiNews’ The Point of View on Monday, August 11, 2025, Mr. Ablakwa described the loss of Dr. Omane Boamah as a tragic blow to Ghana’s efforts in fighting the galamsey crisis.
He stated that the country had lost a visionary leader with the potential to make a significant impact in this battle.
“We have really lost people who had so much prospects, could have really changed the destiny of our country. Look, I have no doubt that Dr. Omane Boamah would have solved this galamsey crisis.”
He recounted private conversations with the late Defence Minister, who made it clear that he would take decisive action without bowing to political pressures.
“He told me, ‘Look, the Military will be deployed, I’m deploying them. I’m getting calls — sometimes he will show you who is calling — and it could be National Executive, Regional Executive. I’m not minding you. I’m not going to engage in any pretense.”
“What we do in private is different from what we’re telling the public, No! These troops are in harm’s way, risking their lives and you want us to cut political deals? No, I won’t be part of that.’”
Mr. Ablakwa further revealed that Dr. Omane Boamah had communicated this firm decision to President John Mahama, who fully supported the military intervention.
“President Mahama’s response was clear: ‘You have my full blessings, go ahead,’” Mr. Ablakwa recalled.
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