Illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, has long plagued Ghana, leading to severe environmental damage and threatening the well-being of local communities. The alleged involvement of a prominent figure like Wontumi in such activities raises serious concerns about the broader issue of corruption in the country.
Recently, Wontumi, the chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), found himself at the center of controversy following allegations from overseas broadcaster Kelvin Taylor. Taylor accused him of participating in galamsey and even claimed that Wontumi sacrificed his own son in pursuit of wealth.
“You, Wontumi, don’t care about the people of Ghana. You import drinking water while destroying the country’s water sources just for gold — gold for which you even sacrificed your son,” said Taylor.
These allegations have provoked strong public reaction, with many disturbed by the extreme nature of the claims and what they suggest about the greed and disregard shown by those involved in illegal mining.