Minority Chief Whip raises concerns over ambiguities in Gold Board bill

Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh has called for a review of the Gold Board Bill. He cited ambiguities and misrepresentations in its current form.

Speaking in Parliament on Friday, March 29, he urged lawmakers to refine the bill before passing it into law.

He pointed out that the memorandum mentions a four-license regime. However, the bill itself lists about ten licenses. “This appears to be some kind of misrepresentation,” he said.

Annoh-Dompreh emphasized the need to examine these license regimes closely. He noted they are fraught with ambiguity.

The MP also raised concerns about gold transportation and storage. He stated these aspects are not well-defined in the bill.

“If we want to pass this bill, we need more work on it,” he suggested. He acknowledged his side's support for the bill but stressed the need for clarity.

“We should not rush this process,” he added. He insisted that regulating the gold sector is important but must be done clearly and comprehensively.

“The idea is noble, and we all want to support it,” he said. However, he noted that ambiguity and misrepresentation in the text are significant issues that must be addressed.

He highlighted key issues like distinguishing between private and commercial gold storage. “The bill does not make this distinction, which creates confusion,” he explained.

Emphasizing gold's historical significance in Ghana, he urged caution from Parliament.

“Gold has been vital to our country for ages,” he said. If we want effective regulation, we must proceed carefully.

“Let’s hasten slowly to ensure all concerns are addressed before moving forward as a nation.”