The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has vowed to take decisive action against Members of Parliament (MPs) found engaging in illegal mining, known as galamsey. His firm stance comes at a time when Ghana is grappling with the devastating effects of illegal mining on its water bodies, forest reserves, and agricultural lands.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, January 30, Bagbin emphasized that any lawmaker involved in illegal mining would not be allowed to retain their parliamentary seat. He called on the public to provide credible evidence against any MP engaged in the practice, promising to initiate proceedings that could lead to their removal. His statement underscores the increasing pressure on public officials to take responsibility for addressing the galamsey crisis, which has severely impacted the country’s environment.
“If you have evidence of any member indulging in galamsey, draw my attention. I will put in motion a process where you will lose your membership as a Member of Parliament. Please bring the information to my notice,” Bagbin declared, making it clear that Parliament will not shield any MP involved in the illegal activity.
His warning follows growing concerns that some political figures, including MPs, may be complicit in the illegal mining trade, either directly or by providing protection to illegal miners. Over the years, several reports have suggested that influential individuals, including government officials, have benefited from galamsey operations, making it difficult to combat the menace effectively. However, Bagbin’s latest remarks indicate that he is prepared to ensure accountability among lawmakers.
Illegal mining has been one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental issues, leading to the destruction of water bodies, pollution of rivers with mercury and other chemicals, and loss of vast forest reserves. The effects have been particularly severe in mining communities, where local residents struggle with contaminated water sources and deteriorating farmlands. Despite multiple government interventions, including the deployment of security forces to stop illegal miners, the practice remains widespread, largely due to the influence of powerful individuals in the sector.
Bagbin stressed that Parliament has the legal authority to remove MPs implicated in illegal mining. “We will take action. That is how we can fight galamsey. I mean what I am saying, I am not joking, unless you hide such information from me. If I get any credible information on any of you on this matter, I am going to initiate the process, and you can lose your seat as a Member of Parliament. The law is there to enable us to do that,” he stated.
His remarks have sparked discussions among both lawmakers and the general public about the extent of political involvement in illegal mining and the effectiveness of previous efforts to address the crisis. While the government has introduced several measures, including banning small-scale mining at various points and forming anti-galamsey task forces, illegal mining remains a deeply rooted problem in many parts of the country.
Environmental groups and civil society organizations have welcomed Bagbin’s statement, seeing it as a step toward greater accountability. Many have long called for strict measures against public officials who engage in or support illegal mining, arguing that without political will, the fight against galamsey will remain ineffective. The Speaker’s firm stance has renewed hope that Parliament will take an active role in addressing the crisis by holding its own members accountable.
The role of MPs in illegal mining has been a controversial issue, with accusations that some lawmakers profit from the industry either directly or through associates. While some MPs have openly supported efforts to curb illegal mining, others have been accused of interfering with enforcement actions in their constituencies, making it difficult for authorities to clamp down on offenders.
The Speaker’s warning now places MPs under increased scrutiny, as the public is being encouraged to report any suspected involvement of lawmakers in illegal mining. If credible evidence is presented against any MP, they could face an official process that may lead to their removal from office. This move aligns with Ghana’s broader anti-corruption and environmental protection efforts, which seek to ensure that individuals in positions of power do not abuse their influence for personal gain.
For years, Ghana has struggled to balance the economic benefits of mining with its environmental consequences. While legal mining operations contribute significantly to the country’s economy, illegal mining continues to undermine efforts to ensure sustainable resource management. The destruction caused by galamsey has led to international criticism, with concerns that Ghana’s water crisis could worsen if illegal mining is not curbed.
Bagbin’s announcement is expected to put additional pressure on MPs to distance themselves from illegal mining activities. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of previous measures to hold public officials accountable. If Parliament follows through with its commitment to investigate and remove MPs involved in galamsey, it could mark a significant turning point in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining.
The Speaker’s statement has also sparked reactions from political parties, with some members expressing support for his stance while others have called for caution to ensure that any accusations made against MPs are backed by solid evidence. The call for public participation in reporting illegal mining activities highlights the need for a collaborative approach between government institutions, law enforcement agencies, and citizens.
As the country continues to grapple with the effects of illegal mining, Bagbin’s remarks serve as a strong warning that no one, regardless of their political status, will be exempt from accountability. His firm position suggests that Parliament is ready to take a leadership role in addressing the galamsey crisis, setting an example for other branches of government to follow.
While it remains to be seen how many MPs, if any, will be implicated in illegal mining through this process, the Speaker’s statement has sent a clear message that the era of political protection for galamsey operators may be coming to an end. As calls for environmental protection grow louder, many hope that this latest development will contribute to a lasting solution to Ghana’s illegal mining problem.
