Former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Inusah Fuseini, has strongly condemned the alleged interference by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Asutifi North in a law enforcement operation involving suspected illegal miners.
Speaking at a symposium organised by the Institute for Economic Affairs (IEA), the former Tamale Central MP described the alleged conduct as “unethical, wrong, totally unacceptable and condemnable,” stressing that public office holders must never interfere in the work of security agencies.
“Let’s wait for the outcome of the investigations, but even on their own side, when public officers are performing their duties, it is wrong and unethical, totally unacceptable and condemnable for other public officers to interfere in the work of those carrying out their duty,” he said.
Mr. Fuseini noted that this development marks a troubling precedent.
“This is the first time that we have had a Member of Parliament interfering to seek the release of persons engaged in illegal mining activity. That should not be the route. The Member of Parliament should know that illegality and impunity cannot be condoned.”
The incident follows widespread public concerns over political interference in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. The MP is alleged to have attempted to secure the release of individuals arrested for illegal mining activities a matter currently under investigation.
Lithium Agreement Concerns
Mr. Fuseini also expressed disappointment over the government’s handling of Ghana’s lithium exploitation arrangements, saying the current royalty-based model does not serve national interest.
According to him, Ghana should be pursuing service contracts that give the country a greater share of proceeds from critical minerals like lithium.
“I thought that the model should have been totally different from the royalties’ model. We should do service contracts get partners willing to work with Ghana under conditions that provide them reward, but a greater percentage of the benefit should come to Ghana.”
He stressed that past royalty and taxation agreements had done little to benefit the nation, warning against repeating historical mistakes.
“I was disappointed when it appeared we are still moving along the same path of royalties, taxes, and credit interests, which have never actually benefited this country.”
Background
The current administration has advanced regulatory and investment agreements for lithium mining, sparking debate among policy experts, civil society, and industry observers. Critics argue Ghana must avoid repeating patterns seen in gold and oil concessions where resource-rich communities saw minimal benefits.
At the same time, efforts to crack down on illegal mining have been marred by accusations of political interference and weak enforcement.
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