Security consultant Richard Kumadoe says the Ghana Armed Forces have the capability to end illegal mining (galamsey) swiftly, but political interference continues to frustrate the fight.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, August 16, 2025, Kumadoe argued that the military could resolve the problem “in no time” if granted full independence, but conflicting directives from politicians often undermine their efforts.
“As law enforcement officers, we see politicians and civilians as playing hide and seek. If the military is left to act freely, they would deal with this issue quickly. But you create a psychological problem for them when you send them to the field and then tie their hands,” he explained.
He noted that while the military operates under civilian authority, this sometimes forces officers to carry out orders “against their will and conscience.”
Kumadoe emphasised that without removing political influence, Ghana will continue to face setbacks in the galamsey fight, despite having capable and well-trained security agencies.
