Members of Parliament have received a harsh warning from Speaker of the House Alban Bagbin, who has stated that any lawmaker found to be involved in illicit mining, or galamsey, will suffer dire consequences.
In his speech to the plenary on Tuesday, January 28, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the need for Parliament to adopt a strong and resolute position against the escalating galamsey danger, which he said has resulted in extensive environmental destruction throughout the nation.
He emphasized that rather than engaging in actions that negatively impact the country’s environment, Members of Parliament have an obligation to set a good example by following the law in their capacity as leaders and representatives of the people.
Speaker Bagbin stressed in his remarks the seriousness of the situation and called on all Members of Parliament to accept personal responsibility and disassociate themselves entirely.
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.”
The Speaker’s remarks are made at a time when Ghana’s environment, especially its forests and waterways, is still in danger from illicit mining.
Further
Politicians, including members of parliament and government officials, have been implicated in illicit mining activities on multiple occasions throughout the years, either directly or indirectly, by aiding and abetting illegal miners.
For many years, Ghana has struggled with illegal mining, and several governments have implemented different policies to lessen its destructive impacts.
However, galamsey persists despite a number of interventions, such as task force formation, prohibitions, and military operations, primarily as a result of the cooperation of powerful people, including certain politicians.
