The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has made a startling revelation that some Members of Parliament (MPs) are involved in illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey. This disclosure came during a two-day emergency sitting of Parliament, where the ongoing galamsey crisis was the central topic of debate.
The emergency session aimed to address the growing concerns over illegal mining activities and their impact on Ghana’s environment and economy. The discussions underscored the state’s failure to effectively combat the galamsey problem, with MPs presenting arguments from both sides of the house.
During the session, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the need for MPs to lead by example in the fight against illegal mining. His comments were directed at addressing the hypocrisy within Parliament, where some lawmakers are reportedly involved in galamsey while publicly condemning it.
“Who are those participating in the galamsey? If we take a census, some of you will be there, and the people you are talking to are aware. It is not that they are not aware; they are aware that some of you are participating in it,” Speaker Bagbin stated.
Bagbin’s remarks highlight a significant issue of integrity and accountability within the legislative body. He called for MPs to desist from engaging in illegal mining activities and to set a positive example for the public. His comments also reflect a broader concern about the influence of illegal mining on political campaigns and electoral processes.
“So please first desist from doing it yourself. Don’t go to them for your money for your campaigns. Don’t go to solicit their votes. Let them see your work,” Bagbin urged. His call for MPs to focus on their work and avoid seeking support from illegal miners underscores the need for a clean and transparent political environment.
The Speaker’s comments are part of a broader effort to address the galamsey crisis, which has had devastating effects on Ghana’s environment, including water pollution and deforestation. The illegal mining activities have also contributed to the loss of livelihoods for many communities and have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of natural resources.
In response to Bagbin’s revelations, MPs from both sides of the house acknowledged the severity of the galamsey problem and the need for more effective measures to combat it. The debate during the emergency sitting included discussions on potential legislative and regulatory reforms to address the crisis.
Several MPs called for increased enforcement of existing laws and the implementation of stricter penalties for those involved in illegal mining. Others emphasized the importance of community engagement and education to prevent the spread of galamsey activities.
The debate also touched on the role of mining companies and government agencies in addressing the galamsey crisis. Some MPs argued that more effective collaboration between the public and private sectors is necessary to tackle the issue comprehensively.
Speaker Bagbin’s disclosure has added a new dimension to the ongoing discussions about illegal mining in Ghana. By highlighting the involvement of some MPs in galamsey, Bagbin has intensified calls for greater accountability and transparency within the legislative body.
The galamsey crisis has been a persistent issue in Ghana, with previous efforts to address it often falling short. The illegal mining activities have not only caused environmental damage but have also contributed to the erosion of public trust in government institutions.
The emergency sitting of Parliament marks a significant step in addressing the galamsey problem, but it remains to be seen what concrete actions will be taken in response to the debates and revelations. The involvement of MPs in illegal mining activities has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of current policies and the commitment of lawmakers to addressing the crisis.
As Parliament continues to debate and discuss the issue, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together to develop and implement effective solutions. The fight against illegal mining requires a coordinated effort that involves government agencies, lawmakers, civil society organizations, and local communities.
Speaker Alban Bagbin’s revelation about the involvement of MPs in illegal mining has brought renewed attention to the galamsey crisis. His call for MPs to lead by example and avoid participating in illegal activities is a critical step in addressing the issue and restoring public confidence in Ghana’s political and regulatory systems. As the debate continues, it is essential for Parliament to demonstrate its commitment to tackling the galamsey problem and ensuring that Ghana’s natural resources are managed sustainably and responsibly.
