MPs Involved in “Galamsey” will be Sanction -Speaker Bagbin Threatens
The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament (MPs), stating that any legislator found involved in illegal mining, also known as galamsey, will face severe consequences.
In a speech delivered to Parliament on Tuesday, January 28, Speaker Bagbin underscored the urgency of addressing the growing galamsey crisis, which has caused significant environmental harm across the country.
He emphasized that as elected leaders, MPs have a responsibility to set a positive example for the public by upholding the law and refraining from participation in activities that threaten the nation’s environmental integrity.
Bagbin described the situation as grave, stressing that MPs must take personal responsibility and distance themselves from any illegal mining operations. He urged Parliament to adopt a firm stance against the issue, saying, “Galamsey must be confronted head-on. If any of you are involved, you need to reconsider your actions. As a House, we must lead by example and act decisively.”
The Speaker’s comments come amid ongoing concerns about the environmental damage caused by illegal mining, which has severely affected Ghana’s water bodies and forests.
Despite numerous government efforts—including task forces, military operations, and bans—illegal mining continues to thrive, often with the alleged involvement of influential figures, including some politicians.
Bagbin concluded by warning that any MP caught engaging in galamsey would face the full extent of parliamentary sanctions.
“If I receive any information regarding any member’s involvement in galamsey, we will begin taking immediate action,” he declared.
Source: Felix Nyaaba//expressnewsghana.com