The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament, stating that any legislator found engaging in illegal mining (galamsey) will face serious consequences.
Speaking to the plenary on Tuesday, January 28, Speaker Bagbin highlighted the urgent need for Parliament to take a strong stance against the escalating galamsey issue, which he noted has caused significant environmental damage across the country.
Bagbin called on MPs, as leaders and representatives of the people, to lead by example by adhering to the law and avoiding activities that contribute to environmental destruction. He urged all MPs to take personal responsibility and completely dissociate from 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.”
The Speaker’s comments come at a time when illegal mining continues to pose a threat to Ghana’s environment, particularly its water bodies and forests.
Over the years, several reports have emerged 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.
