The debate over illegal mining resurfaced in Parliament after Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga declared that the government will not spare any official found complicit in galamsey operations. His comments signal a tougher posture by the Mahama-led administration amid nationwide concerns about environmental degradation.
The statement was triggered by Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh’s call for mandatory weekly briefings from the Lands and Natural Resources Minister. He argued that the unchecked destruction of rivers and forest reserves demands a structured and transparent reporting system to Parliament.
Speaking during the session, Ayariga emphasized that President Mahama intends to uphold the rule of law irrespective of political connections. He contrasted this approach with what he described as the previous administration’s reluctance to act against officials and influential party figures implicated in illegal mining.
“Party rank or government position will not save anyone,” Ayariga cautioned. He insisted that individuals at every level—from regional executives to national appointees—would be subjected to arrest if found to be aiding illegal mining.
Ayariga also alluded to earlier cases where regional party leaders were publicly linked to galamsey but no disciplinary steps were taken despite official reports. He said such lapses would not be tolerated under the current government’s anti-galamsey drive.
Source: newsghana.com.gh
