Hold Me Accountable, But Remember What I Said Before — Sam George on Galamsey and the Economy

Communications Minister Sam Nartey George has pushed back against critics seeking to hold him accountable for galamsey, arguing that the same people should remember his past warnings about the economy under the previous government. In comments reported by OyerepaNews, he recalled speaking about how former President Akufo-Addo had “stolen the purse,” alongside then Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who he noted is now living in the United States. He then posed a pointed question: now that the economy is showing signs of stability, why are those same critics not giving him credit for the warnings he issued during the campaign?

The statement reflects a familiar political dynamic: a government figure insisting that accountability be applied consistently. Sam George’s argument is that he was right about the economy before the election, and that his credibility on that issue should be acknowledged now that his predictions are, in his view, being vindicated. By invoking the image of a “stolen purse,” he is framing the previous administration as one that squandered public resources — a charge that resonates with many Ghanaians who lived through the economic difficulties of recent years.

On galamsey, however, the Minister’s position is more defensive. Illegal small-scale mining remains one of the most contentious issues in Ghana, with widespread concern about its impact on water bodies, farmland, and public health. As a prominent government voice, Sam George is a natural target for critics who feel not enough is being done to tackle the crisis. His response is essentially to ask for a broader view of his record — one that includes his economic advocacy, not just his handling of galamsey. Whether that argument persuades anyone will depend on how they weigh the two issues.

The reference to Ken Ofori-Atta living in the United States is a deliberate rhetorical touch. It suggests that those who presided over economic mismanagement have escaped consequences, while those now in office face relentless criticism. This is a common theme in Ghanaian politics, where former officials are often accused of leaving problems behind for their successors. Sam George’s framing invites the public to compare: if the previous government’s economic record is not being prosecuted with the same vigour, why is his own record being scrutinised so intensely?

Ultimately, the Minister’s comments highlight a tension that runs through democratic accountability. Governments are expected to answer for their performance, but the standard should be consistent across administrations. Sam George is asking for that consistency — and for recognition of what he got right. His critics, meanwhile, will argue that past warnings do not excuse present shortcomings. Both perspectives will shape the political debate as galamsey and the economy remain at the centre of national conversation.