AG Directs EOCO to Investigate Two NDC Executives Cited in Galamsey Allegations

AG Directs EOCO to Investigate Two NDC Executives Cited in Galamsey Allegations

Ghana’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has formally directed the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to commence investigations into two executives of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) who have been implicated in illegal mining operations, commonly referred to as "galamsey".

The move follows growing public concern over the increasing role of politically connected individuals in illegal mining activities, which continue to cause environmental devastation across several regions in Ghana.

Background of the Allegations

The two unnamed NDC executives were cited in a recent intelligence report submitted by a joint task force involved in monitoring illegal mining. According to the report, the individuals were allegedly linked to the financing and protection of unauthorized mining operations in forest reserves and water bodies.

While the report is yet to be made public, sources close to the Ministry of Justice suggest that the findings provided “reasonable grounds for further investigation under EOCO’s mandate.”

Attorney General's Statement

In a letter to EOCO’s Executive Director, the Attorney General emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in addressing the matter.

“I hereby refer this matter to your office for full-scale investigation into potential breaches of the law, including money laundering, abuse of public office, and violation of the Minerals and Mining Act,” the AG’s letter stated.

He further reiterated the government's commitment to combatting illegal mining “irrespective of political affiliation.”

NDC Reacts

The NDC has reacted swiftly, describing the directive as a politically motivated witch-hunt intended to tarnish the party's image ahead of the 2024 elections.

In a press conference held by the party’s Communications Director, Sammy Gyamfi, the NDC called the AG’s move “a distraction from the government’s own failures in the fight against galamsey.”

“We challenge the Attorney General to also look into the damning allegations against key figures within the NPP who have been shielded for years,” Gyamfi added.

Public Sentiment Mixed

The directive has received mixed reactions from the public. While some have praised the AG’s decision as a step toward accountability, others view it with skepticism, questioning whether it will result in real action or simply serve political ends.

Civil society groups have welcomed the directive but are calling for the publication of all names implicated in the illegal mining report — across party lines.

Next Steps

EOCO is expected to begin preliminary investigations this week, including asset tracking, interviews with community members, and a review of mining licenses and financial transactions connected to the accused individuals.

Legal experts say if EOCO finds sufficient evidence, the matter could be referred to the Special Prosecutor or the courts for criminal prosecution.

Conclusion

As the investigation unfolds, the case is likely to deepen Ghana’s complex struggle against illegal mining, while adding another layer to the already tense political climate. The public, meanwhile, waits to see whether this will lead to justice — or become another episode in the cycle of political blame games.