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Spencer Wan Blog of Wednesday, 29 January 2025

Source: Eric Afatsao

Speaker Bagbin Warns MPs: Severe Sanctions Await Those Involved in Galamsey

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Source: Citi Newsroom, January 29, 2025

The Speaker of Parliament, 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 serious consequences.

Speaking during a parliamentary session on Tuesday, January 28, Speaker Bagbin underscored the urgent need for Parliament to take a decisive stance against galamsey, which has caused extensive environmental destruction across Ghana.

He emphasized that MPs, as public representatives, have a duty to uphold the law and set a positive example, rather than contributing to activities that degrade the environment.

“Honourable members, galamsey must be confronted head-on. If any of you are involved, please reconsider your actions. We must be ready as a House to take tough decisions. If I receive any credible information implicating an MP in galamsey, we will initiate necessary disciplinary actions from Parliament,” Bagbin warned.

His statement comes amid persistent concerns about illegal mining’s devastating impact on Ghana’s water bodies, forests, and communities. Over the years, reports have surfaced implicating politicians, including MPs and government officials, in either directly participating in galamsey or shielding illegal miners from prosecution.

Despite multiple government efforts—ranging from military task forces and bans to community engagement initiatives—illegal mining continues to thrive, largely due to the involvement of powerful individuals who enable or protect the practice.

Bagbin’s warning signals a renewed push for accountability in Ghana’s ongoing battle against illegal mining. His call for MPs to take personal responsibility and distance themselves from galamsey reinforces the importance of strong leadership in tackling this national crisis.

With environmental degradation and water pollution reaching critical levels, the Speaker’s firm stance could serve as a turning point in addressing one of Ghana’s most persistent challenges.

This is as reported by CitiNewsroom.