The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has issued a strong condemnation of illegal mining activities (galamsey), describing them as a “grave threat” to the nation’s environment, water bodies, and public health.
Meeting at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra for its mid-year conference last week, the GBA did not mince words in condemning the menace.
“The Ghana Bar Association unequivocally condemns the ongoing galamsey activities across the country,” a resolution from the Association after the conference read in part.
It further called on all branches of government, security forces, and stakeholders to act decisively and consistently to stamp out the menace.
The Association particularly emphasised the role of the judiciary in this national crisis, urging the bench to give galamsey-related cases priority.
“We urge the Judiciary to prioritise and expedite the hearing of galamsey-related cases, ensuring that offenders are held accountable in accordance with the law, without fear or favour.”
The legal community’s call comes amid growing public concern over the environmental degradation and the apparent impunity with which some galamsey operators function.
The GBA observed that “the legal profession plays a key role in national development and the administration of justice”, reiterating their commitment to justice not only in the courtroom but also in the stewardship of Ghana’s natural resources.
