Galamsey: Kwakye Ofosu confirms LI 2462 will be repealed, not amended

The Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced plans to repeal Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462. This law allows mining in forest reserves.

At a World Press Freedom Day event in Accra, he explained the government's decision. An earlier attempt to amend L.I. 2462 faced strong opposition from environmental groups. These included A Rocha Ghana and the Media Coalition Against Galamsey.

Mr. Kwakye Ofosu noted that on March 20, the Minister for Environment presented L.I. 2462 in Parliament. The original goal was to limit presidential power over licenses in forest reserves.

However, the government has now decided to fully revoke the law. He mentioned that the Attorney-General will support this effort when Parliament resumes.

Mr. Kwakye Ofosu described illegal mining, or galamsey, as a national emergency. He compared it to terrorism and stressed the need for strong action.

He stated that the government views galamsey as a significant challenge. Those involved will be treated similarly to terrorists. For this reason, they have been actively addressing the issue since taking office.