The Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Dr. Murtala Mohammed, has assured Ghanaians that the process to repeal Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462 has begun.
The controversial instrument, which permitted mining in forest reserves, is set to be repealed within the 120-day timeline promised by President John Mahama.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Monday, March 17, Dr. Mohammed confirmed that engagements with parliamentary leadership and stakeholders have taken place, paving the way for the repeal process to be finalized soon.
“We have actually started the process. I engaged the Ranking Member on Subsidiary Legislation, Hon. Patrick Boamah, and other leadership members. We have agreed to lay it very soon. One thing I can assure the public is that we will meet the 120-day promise made by the President,” Dr. Mohammed stated.
He explained that, due to ongoing budget discussions, the decision was made to proceed without a pre-laying process to expedite the amendment.
“Hopefully, we will have it laid tomorrow (Tuesday) or by Wednesday at the latest,” he added.
When asked whether the government should consider declaring a state of emergency due to the severe impact of illegal mining on water bodies, Dr. Mohammed deferred the decision to security agencies but emphasized the government’s commitment to fighting environmental destruction.
“I am not in a position to determine whether the security situation warrants a state of emergency—that decision lies with the leadership of the security agencies. However, if they deem it necessary, why not? What I can say is that this is a fight we will not relent on. We will not spare anyone, whether directly or indirectly involved in the destruction of our water bodies, habitats, and environment,” he declared.
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