Afenyo-Markin Urges Transparency and Proper Procedure as Lands Minister Presents Lithium Mining Lease to Parliament

The Minority Leader and MP for Efutu, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has called for clarity and procedural diligence as the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, appeared before Parliament to present the Mining Lease Agreement between the Government of Ghana and Barari DV Ghana Limited, the local subsidiary of Atlantic Lithium.

The presentation, which took place on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, marks a significant step in Ghana’s quest to develop its first large-scale lithium project at Mankessim in the Central Region. According to Parliament’s business statement for the week ending Friday, November 14, the move comes after more than two years of negotiations and delays, driven by public calls for a fairer and more transparent deal.

However, during proceedings, Hon. Afenyo-Markin emphasised that the presentation of such a vital document should not be treated as a mere formality. He urged the minister to provide a brief explanatory statement to help members understand the key amendments and implications of the revised agreement.

“Mr Speaker, my understanding is that the agreement has seen some amendments. Whatever it is, I would beg of the minister to give a short explanatory statement on this,” Afenyo-Markin stated.

Citing Order 97(5) of the Standing Orders of Parliament, the Majority Leader explained that while the Speaker has the discretion to refer papers to the relevant committee, it is not an automatic requirement. He stressed that the Speaker may withhold referral if further ministerial clarification or executive action is needed before parliamentary consideration.

“The mere fact that the presentation of papers is procedural does not mean members of this House cannot interrogate the matter before it is referred. The Standing Orders do not impose a mandatory obligation—the Speaker has discretion,” he clarified.

Hon. Afenyo-Markin further noted that sufficient copies of the document must be made available to all members to facilitate informed debate and ensure parliamentary transparency. He cautioned against rushing the process, especially given the national importance of Ghana’s lithium resource.

“This is a new matter. We’ve never dealt with something like this before in this House, and I would pray that the Minister obliges my request so that we can make progress,” he appealed.

The Lands and Natural Resources Ministry’s presentation comes amid heightened public and industry interest in Ghana’s emerging lithium sector, which has been touted as a key driver of the country’s green energy ambitions. The revised Mining Lease Agreement is expected to outline improved fiscal terms, stronger environmental safeguards, and enhanced local participation following months of renegotiation.

Once officially laid before the House, the document will be referred to the relevant parliamentary committee for detailed examination before being tabled for ratification.

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