Political activist Osagyefo Oliver Barker-Vormawor in a social media post has expressed deep concerns over the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s recent reversal on the controversial Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462, which governs mining in forest reserves.
Barker-Vormawor is demanding clarity from the government on why it backtracked on a promise that was central to its campaign platform.
The NDC, led by President John Mahama, had previously committed to repealing LI 2462 if they returned to power. However, since taking office, the government has changed its position on the policy, leaving many to question the reasons behind this sudden shift.
Barker-Vormawor, in his post, expressed frustration, stating: “One of the things I am finding difficult to understand is the NDC’s sudden reversal on LI 2462. The NDC, including President Mahama, had clearly stated that they would repeal LI 2462 once they took office. However, since being elected, they have backtracked on this promise without offering the people of Ghana a clear, honest explanation for this U-turn.”
LI 2462, formally known as the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2022, allows regulated mining within forest reserves, a move that has been met with significant opposition from environmentalists. Critics argue that it opens the door for more mining activities in Ghana’s ecologically sensitive areas, exacerbating the already destructive effects of illegal mining.
Illegal mining, or galamsey, has become one of the most pressing environmental issues in Ghana. The environmental damage caused by galamsey operations is extensive, with rivers and forest reserves being destroyed, leading to severe loss of biodiversity and the pollution of water bodies.
Local communities, particularly those in mining areas, have expressed their anger through numerous protests, demanding that the government do more to curb galamsey and its detrimental effects on the environment.
Barker-Vormawor highlighted the serious consequences of galamsey, particularly in forest reserves, where destructive mining activities have been rampant. He said: “We’ve seen the damage that galamsey has caused in this country, devastated forests, polluted rivers, and destroyed communities. These are not just environmental concerns; they are a matter of national security and public health.”
His comments reflect the widespread public sentiment that illegal mining is doing irreparable damage to Ghana’s natural resources and ecosystems.
The reversal of LI 2462 has reignited fears that the government is compromising its environmental commitments, particularly regarding the issue of galamsey. The NDC’s pledge to protect Ghana’s forests and natural resources has now come into question, with many people demanding an explanation for the government’s change of heart. Barker-Vormawor has been vocal in calling for accountability, stating: “So far, the President has done well in fulfilling many other commitments. Why not this one? What has changed? We deserve respect and transparency. The government must come clean and explain why this promise to protect the environment has been abandoned. We need answers.”
The debate surrounding LI 2462 is far from over, as environmentalists, activists, and ordinary citizens alike are calling on the government to reconsider its stance. As Ghana faces the dual challenges of economic growth and environmental preservation, it will be crucial for the government to address the growing concerns over mining in forest reserves and the broader issue of galamsey.
