The unresolved standoff between E&P and Azumah Resources over the Black Volta gold mine is already affecting Ghana’s economy and international image, according to the Minority in Parliament.
They argue that the impasse has stalled vital mining activity in the Upper West Region, depriving communities and the state of critical economic benefits.
“This mine holds the potential to generate hundreds of direct jobs and thousands more indirectly,” the Minority stressed.
Delays, they warn, mean missed royalties, stalled development funds, and uncertainty for other mining investors looking at Ghana.
In a period of economic restructuring, such opportunity costs are hard to justify.
Politically, the Minority raised concerns about conflicts of interest due to E&P’s perceived links to power.
“It is as much for the benefit of E&P and its eminent founder that such concerns be properly and effectively managed,” Mr Ampratwum-Sarpong said, warning that institutions like EBID must also observe the ‘do no harm’ principle in ongoing litigation.
The Caucus has posed six detailed questions to the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and insists Parliament must be fully involved before any resolution is finalised.
“Let this Parliament not be found wanting,” they concluded. “We must uphold the rule of law and protect Ghana’s international standing as a stable mining jurisdiction.”
