President John Dramani Mahama on Friday assured Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), faith-based groups, and environmental advocates that his administration is fully committed to eradicating illegal mining, locally known as galamsey. Speaking at a high-level stakeholder engagement in Accra, the President declared his government’s resolve to win the fight against the activities that have severely damaged Ghana’s forests and water bodies. His assurance comes amid sustained public clamour for more decisive government action on the environmental crisis.
In a candid appeal, President Mahama acknowledged and welcomed the pressure and criticism from civic groups, stating that he views public advocacy as a necessary tool to ensure accountability. “Your contributions, your criticisms, your pressure—putting fire under our feet—we don’t have any problem with that,” the President said, encouraging stakeholders to continue their efforts. He stressed that such pressure acts as a vital force to keep the government focused on its promises and accountable for delivering tangible results in curbing the illegal activities.
The President’s commitment and open dialogue with activists followed renewed calls from influential groups, including the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference. These organisations have pressed the government to establish clear benchmarks, prosecute galamsey kingpins, and set up fast-track courts specifically dedicated to environmental crimes. The collective push from these groups underscores the widespread demand for greater transparency and speed in enforcing environmental protection laws and bringing perpetrators to justice.
Providing a concrete step towards regulatory reform, Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dominic Ayine, announced the government’s intention to revoke the controversial Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462. The LI has been a major subject of public and political debate, with critics arguing it has complicated the fight against illegal mining. The Attorney General confirmed that he and the sector Minister had agreed on the revocation as part of the broader efforts to strengthen the legal framework against galamsey.
Dr. Ayine further disclosed that his office has already prepared a new instrument, LI 2505, which is scheduled to be laid before Parliament on October 14, the day the House resumes sitting. This move will formally revoke the contentious LI 2462, signalling the government’s responsiveness to public concerns and its willingness to adjust legislation that may be hindering the successful prosecution and elimination of illegal mining across the country.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
