Speaker Alban S.K. Bagbin warned that MPs engaged in illegal mining will face strict legal consequences. He emphasized accountability and urged parliamentarians to promote sustainable mining practices within their constituencies. The recent conference aimed to educate MPs on these issues and support the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources in combatting illegal mining through community initiatives.
Alban S.K. Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has issued a stern warning to all Members of Parliament (MPs) regarding involvement in illegal small-scale mining, commonly referred to as galamsey. He declared that any MP found participating in such illegal activities will be subjected to the full extent of the law, emphasizing that Parliament will not overlook any misconduct by its members.
During the closing ceremony of a conference organized by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in Accra, Bagbin reiterated Parliament’s commitment to ethical behavior and accountability. “We can’t be preaching accountability and integrity and turn a blind eye to misconducting ourselves,” he asserted. This conference aimed to enlighten parliamentarians on promoting sustainable mining practices and collectively addressing the illegal mining crisis in Ghana.
The theme of the conference was “Restoring a Culture of Proper Small-Scale Mining in Ghana,” attracting various stakeholders, including MPs, heads of agencies related to the Ministry, and Civil Society Organizations. Bagbin urged MPs to take initiative in advocating sustainable mining methods within their constituencies and to serve as positive role models in their communities.
He called upon parliamentarians to carry a renewed determination to educate their constituents about responsible mining practices. He pledged Parliament’s support for the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, in tackling the galamsey issue, ensuring that legislative support is provided to enhance efforts against illegal mining.
Mr. Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader in Parliament, recognized the proactive steps taken by Minister Buah since his appointment and commended his initiatives to combat illegal mining. The Minister, during his address, expressed the government’s commitment to empowering MPs in their constituencies to mobilize support for Community Mining Cooperatives, which will operate under proper legal frameworks.
These cooperatives will receive mining licenses and support to acquire concessions for small-scale mining activities, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility among all stakeholders in preserving Ghana’s natural resources. The aim is to engage constituents in sustainable mining practices, addressing illegal mining effectively and collaboratively.
The article outlines Speaker Bagbin’s commitment to enforcing strict measures against illegal mining by MPs, emphasizing integrity and accountability within Parliament. The conference aimed at educating MPs on sustainable mining, fostering community involvement through cooperatives, and ensuring legislative support for the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources. Collectively, these actions aim to curb illegal mining activities and promote responsible practices in Ghana.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
