The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has pledged to take decisive action against Members of Parliament (MPs) found engaging in illegal mining activities, known as galamsey, including initiating steps to remove them from their seats.
His announcement follows increasing concerns about the destructive impact of galamsey on Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, January 30, Bagbin called on the public to provide credible evidence against any lawmakers involved in illegal mining. He assured that such information would trigger the necessary processes to hold them accountable.
“If you have evidence of any member indulging in galamsey, draw my attention. I will put in motion a process where they can lose their membership as a Member of Parliament. Please bring the information to my notice,” he stated.
Bagbin reiterated his commitment to tackling the issue, emphasizing, “We will take action. That is how we can fight galamsey. I am serious about this. If I receive credible information about any of you, I will initiate the process, and you risk losing your seat as a Member of Parliament. The law empowers us to do this.”
His remarks underscore Parliament's resolve to combat illegal mining and protect the country’s natural resources.