Acting Chief Justice on Galamsey: Repeal L.I. 2462 & Act Now

The Acting Chief Justice on galamsey has called for immediate action. Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie says the time for bold measures is now. He delivered an address to the Ghana Bar Association conference in Wa. A Supreme Court Justice, Hafisata Amaleboba, read his address on his behalf. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie warned that Ghana cannot “dither in September 2025” on the repeal of L.I. 2462. This is because the law has permitted mining in forest reserves. He said repealing this law is a good place to start. Therefore, he urged the government to act without further delay.

He observed that illegal mining has worsened considerably. It has polluted all of the country’s water bodies. In fact, it has destroyed forests and farmlands. Moreover, it has displaced entire communities. Furthermore, he said that the measures being used “seem half-hearted.” He said these efforts are unable to curb the menace. He believes this is a serious threat to the country’s survival. The Acting Chief Justice on galamsey also believes the nation is being held to ransom. He wondered how a few powerful individuals could benefit from such destruction.

The address also criticized the current prosecution process. The Chief Justice condemned the practice of arresting only low-level offenders. He believes the powerful individuals behind the operations should be held accountable. He said: “We cannot pretend not to know them.” The Acting Chief Justice on galamsey made a very clear statement. He urged political leadership to take bold and far-reaching measures. These should bring the menace to a “long overdue end.” Ultimately, he wants a complete change in strategy. This new approach must target the root causes of the problem. His strong words highlight the urgency of the issue.

Source: Graphic Online