Ghana’s galamsey policy has come under fire from lawyer and social activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who criticizes the government’s decision to repatriate foreign nationals caught engaging in illegal mining instead of prosecuting them. Barker-Vormawor questions the logic behind this policy, particularly after the Deputy Minister of Interior suggested that China would prosecute its nationals involved in galamsey.
Barker-Vormawor argues that this policy creates a disparity in how foreigners are treated under Ghanaian law. He wonders why the blanket term “foreign national” is used, yet the policy seems to apply only to specific countries, like China, that have expressed willingness to take responsibility for their nationals. This raises concerns about the fairness and consistency of the policy.
By repatriating foreign nationals instead of prosecuting them, Barker-Vormawor believes that the government is essentially giving them immunity from Ghana’s laws. This approach allows them to escape accountability, undermining efforts to combat galamsey effectively.
Barker-Vormawor suggests that the government should focus on dismantling the financial structures that enable galamsey, rather than just targeting small-scale miners. He advocates for
– Stricter regulations on the importation of heavy machinery used in illegal mining
– Plea deals for young miners to expose those at the top of the chain
– Targeting financiers behind galamsey operations, rather than just frontline miners
The government’s decision to amend L.I. 2462 instead of repealing it entirely has raised concerns about its commitment to lasting reform. Barker-Vormawor’s criticism highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing galamsey, one that prioritizes accountability and sustainability.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku
