Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, Chairman of Parliament’s Select Committee on Environment, Science, and Technology, has announced his intention to address the issue of illegal mining, known as galamsey, in Parliament on Tuesday, October 15. He expressed concern over the government’s continued silence on the issue, which he believes is deeply troubling.
Parliament is scheduled to begin its 5th meeting of the 4th session on October 15, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre.
In an interview with Citi News, Terlabi, who represents the Lower Manya Krobo constituency, emphasized that the government’s failure to act on the growing illegal mining problem is alarming.
“When we return, I have a few matters to bring up in Parliament, particularly on galamsey and the government’s lack of response. I will ensure that the relevant authorities are summoned to Parliament to explain why this situation persists,” Terlabi stated.
He further criticized the government’s focus on electoral gains, claiming that their silence on the galamsey issue is primarily politically motivated. “The entire country is speaking out against illegal mining, yet this government remains silent. Their priority seems to be winning elections, and that is unacceptable.”
Terlabi also voiced frustration over the delays in passing the Environmental Protection Bill, which has faced repeated obstacles in Parliament.
“I am starting to see why some ministers and presidential appointees are obstructing the passage of the EPA bill. This bill would grant the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) more authority and oversight over institutions involved in environmental issues,” he explained.
He noted that several ministers from different ministries have attempted to block the progress of the bill, hindering efforts to strengthen environmental regulations.