Gov't promoting galamsey with GoldBod; the GoldBod is galamsey board - Minority

The Minority in Parliament has accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government of supporting illegal small-scale mining, known as galamsey. They claim this is happening through GoldBod, a new entity meant to regulate and buy gold from small-scale miners.

During a press briefing on March 28, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin criticized GoldBod. He called it a "Galamsey Board" instead of a regulatory body.

He stated, "We’re all aware of the challenges we face as a nation." He noted that galamsey became a major issue during the elections.

Afenyo-Markin said the current government made promises but is now promoting galamsey. He accused them of using their power to establish what he calls a Galamsey Board.

He argued that instead of investing in agriculture and women's banking, the government is diverting GH¢4.6 billion to small-scale miners. He referred to these miners as galamsey operators.

"If you focus on small-scale mining, everyone knows it’s galamsey," he questioned. "Is this government really ready to fight galamsey?"

The Minority Leader expressed concerns about GoldBod monopolizing gold purchases from small-scale miners. He believes this contradicts efforts against illegal mining while providing financial support.

He reaffirmed the Minority’s commitment to holding the government accountable. They aim to ensure that the NDC-led administration fulfills its promises.

"We told you that with time, the true colors of this NDC will be known," he said. "Today, we have all seen them."

Afenyo-Markin assured that they would continue constructive criticism. They will not criticize for criticism's sake but will hold the NDC/Majority accountable for their actions.