Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament (MPs) who will be caught engaging in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, will face severe consequences.
Parliament, the Speaker stated, must take a firm and decisive stance against the growing galamsey threat, which he described as having caused widespread environmental devastation across the country.
Mr. Bagbin gave the warning when he addressed MPs on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, January 28, 2024.
According to him, the lawmakers as the representatives of the people, have a duty to set a positive example by upholding the law, rather than participating in activities that harm the nation’s environment.
Speaker Bagbin emphasized the gravity of the situation and urged all MPs to take personal responsibility and completely dissociate themselves from any involvement in galamsey operations.
“Honourable members, galamsey must be confronted head on. If any of you happen to be involved in galamsey, please advise yourself. You must be prepared as a house to bite the bullet. We must lead and show the way. And please, if I get any information that any of you is involved in galamsey, we will start taking the necessary action from the House.”
Illegal mining continues to pose a threat to Ghana’s environment, particularly its water bodies and forests.
Several reports have emerged over the years, implicating politicians, including MPs and government officials, in illegal mining activities, either through direct involvement or by providing protection for illegal miners.
The fight against illegal mining has been a major issue in Ghana for decades, with successive governments introducing various measures to curb its devastating effects.
However, despite numerous interventions, including the establishment of task forces, bans, and military operations, galamsey remains rampant, largely due to the complicity of influential individuals, including some politicians.