Ghanaian actor and New Patriotic Party (NPP) member Prince David Osei recently took to Twitter to express his doubts about former President John Dramani Mahama’s chances of returning to power.
Despite potential endorsements from renowned pastors in the country, the actor believes Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, won’t win the presidency.
Osei’s statement also addressed the “propaganda” and accusations against the ruling NPP, highlighting that illegal mining popularly known as Galamsey, now a significant issue in Ghana, isn’t exclusive to one party.
He explained that individuals from both the NPP and NDC, as well as influential figures, are involved in this illicit activity.
This complex issue has been a longstanding problem in Ghana, with research suggesting that the fight against illegal mining has been unsuccessful due to its inherently political nature.
The involvement of powerful actors, including chiefs, politicians, and business elites, has contributed to the persistence of illegal mining, making it challenging to enforce laws and regulations.
He wrote, “Let me share a brief perspective. Even if all the pastors were to pray and anoint Ex-President Mahama, he would not regain the presidency. The ongoing propaganda tactics against the NPP, including accusations of involvement in illegal mining, will not succeed.
The issue of illegal mining involves individuals from both NDC and NPP, politicians, pastors, and the public. Some of us are not mere observers; our prayers are impactful,” Prince David Osei wrote.
Illegal mining has taken centre stage in Ghana’s upcoming elections, with political parties trading blame. The governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) faces criticism for failing to tackle the issue, despite President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s vows to address it.
However, David Osei suggests that illegal mining is a complex national problem that transcends party lines, involving various stakeholders across society.
