The Minority in Parliament has accused the government of legitimising illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, through the establishment of GoldBod, an entity meant to regulate and purchase gold from small-scale miners.
At a press briefing in Parliament on Friday, March 28, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin described GoldBod as a “Galamsey Board” rather than a regulatory body, arguing that it contradicts the fight against illegal mining.
“We’re all aware of the challenges we face as a nation, specifically on galamsey. Our friends who are now in government made promises to end this menace, but today, they are the very people promoting it,” he said.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin criticised the government for diverting GH¢4.6 billion to small-scale miners instead of prioritising investments in agriculture, women’s banking, and the 24-hour economy policy.
“If you say your focus is on small-scale mining, we all know that small-scale mining is galamsey. So the question is—does this government really want to fight galamsey?” he questioned.
The Minority Leader further alleged that the government is monopolising gold purchases while financially supporting miners, which he sees as a contradiction in the fight against illegal mining.
He assured Ghanaians that the Minority will hold the government accountable, stating, “We will not criticise for the sake of it, but we will ensure they deliver on their promises.”
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