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The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, has issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament (MPs), cautioning that any legislator found engaging in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, will face severe consequences.
Addressing the plenary on Tuesday, January 28, Speaker Bagbin underscored the urgent need for Parliament to take a firm and resolute stand against illegal mining, which has caused extensive environmental degradation across the country.
He stressed that MPs, as lawmakers and representatives of the people, have a responsibility to lead by example and uphold the law, rather than partake in activities that destroy the nation’s natural resources.
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In his remarks, Speaker Bagbin highlighted the seriousness of the issue and urged all MPs to distance themselves from any form of galamsey operations, warning that anyone found complicit would not be spared.
“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 statement comes at a time when illegal mining continues to pose a severe threat to Ghana’s environment, particularly its water bodies and forests. The destruction caused by galamsey has led to the pollution of major rivers, deforestation, and loss of arable lands, exacerbating environmental and socio-economic challenges.
Over the years, several reports have implicated politicians, including MPs and government officials, in illegal mining activities. Some have been accused of directly engaging in galamsey, while others have allegedly provided protection and logistical support to illegal miners.
The fight against illegal mining has been a major concern in Ghana for decades. Various governments have introduced multiple measures to curb its effects, including the establishment of task forces, nationwide bans, and military-led operations.
However, despite these interventions, galamsey remains widespread, largely due to the complicity of influential individuals, including some politicians.
Speaker Bagbin’s call for decisive action signals a renewed push by Parliament to play an active role in combating illegal mining. He urged MPs to demonstrate integrity and support efforts to eliminate galamsey, ensuring that policies and laws aimed at protecting Ghana’s environment are strictly enforced.
As the debate over illegal mining intensifies, the Speaker’s warning serves as a reminder that the responsibility to safeguard the country’s natural resources extends beyond law enforcement agencies to the very leaders who create and implement policies.
The effectiveness of this warning, however, will depend on Parliament’s commitment to holding its members accountable and ensuring that no one is above the law.
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