A Catholic priest Rev. Fr. Louis Cecilia Adu-Poku has accused President John Dramani Mahama’s government of failing to curb illegal mining, saying the galamsey menace has worsened despite the president’s pledge to tackle it within his first 100 days in office.

Adu-Poku of the Archdiocese of Kumasi made the remarks during a church service, where he urged Mahama to listen to critical voices and take stronger action against the environmental threat.

“You promised to stop Galamsey within your first 100 days, we’ve gone beyond that… Galamsey has worsened under your tenure,” Adu-Poku said.

The priest also criticised what he described as the inability of people to openly speak about the problem, saying those who raise concerns are sometimes subjected to insults and attacks on social media.

He urged the President to listen to what he called “discerning voices” and act in the interest of the country.

“Respectfully give listening ear to people who will tell you the truth. This nation in all indication is not going the right direction,” he said.

Adu-Poku, who described himself as a Catholic priest and a man of God, also warned Mahama about what he called efforts by unidentified actors working behind the scenes to influence the direction of the country.

“Some of us have prayed. And we know people who are working behind the scenes to turn this nation over,” he said, without identifying the individuals or groups he was referring to.

He urged the President to use his remaining years in office to make decisions that would benefit Ghana and leave a positive legacy.

“It is either you allow God to make a name with you or disgrace yourself before you leave the scene,” he said.

The priest assured Mahama of prayers but stressed that the President must listen to critical voices and make decisions in the national interest.