The Deputy CEO of the Forestry Commission, Elikem Kotoko, has staked his personal credibility on the success of government’s anti-galamsey campaign, pledging measurable results by the end of its tenure.
Speaking to Moro Awudu on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana on April 30, he declared, “I have put my integrity on the line that by the time this government leaves office, you will see significant improvement.”
Mr Kotoko said the fight against illegal mining demands bold and sometimes controversial decisions, including potential restructuring of the Forestry Commission.
“Even if the President decides to replace us with military personnel, I will support it,” he said.
He argued that the scale of the challenge requires discipline and stronger institutional capacity.
“The forests and water bodies are national assets. We must protect them at all costs.”
The Deputy CEO also revealed internal challenges, admitting that institutional weaknesses can undermine enforcement.
“You may be fighting the system and the system begins to fight you,” he said.
He praised President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment, describing it as critical to sustaining momentum.
“We have a president who has shown political will and dedication,” he noted.
Mr Kotoko also acknowledged pressure from civil society and religious groups.
“They keep reminding us not to sleep on the job. People are watching,” he said.
Despite ongoing illegal mining in pockets, he maintained that the overall direction is positive.
“It is not to say there is no galamsey. But we are confronting it with commitment.”
