L.I allowing mining in forest reserves will be repealed – Kwakye Ofosu

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister for Government Communications, announced a change. The Mahama government will repeal Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462. This law currently allows mining in forest reserves.

During his campaign, John Mahama promised to scrap L.I. 2462. However, he initially sought to amend it instead. This decision disappointed environmental advocates and civil society organizations.

At a World Press Freedom Day event in Accra, Kwakye Ofosu shared updates. He said there is ongoing legislative action regarding L.I. 2462. On March 20, the Minister for Environment presented this law in Parliament.

The original intent was to amend L.I. 2462. The goal was to remove the president's power to grant licenses in forest reserves. Now, the new plan is to revoke it entirely.

Kwakye Ofosu mentioned that the Attorney General supports this move once Parliament resumes. He emphasized that galamsey is a significant challenge for Ghana's government. Those involved in galamsey will be treated like terrorists.

Sammy Gyamfi, acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), also commented on L.I. 2462. He stated it would be revoked immediately after Parliament resumes. There were differing opinions on whether to amend or revoke it completely.

Some believed revoking could create a legal vacuum while others called L.I. 2462 "poisonous." Gyamfi noted that those advocating for complete revocation have prevailed in their argument.

He affirmed that the NDC administration listens to public concerns and will act accordingly.