By Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, July 18, GNA- The Minority Caucus in Parliament has expressed concerns over an alleged dispute surrounding the Black Volta gold mine, citing potential risks to Ghana’s mineral governance framework, international reputation, and economic prospects.
“The credibility of our mineral governance regime is on trial. Let this Parliament not be found wanting,” a statement signed and issued by Mr. Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, the Ranking Member of the Lands and Natural Resources Committee, and copied to the Ghana News Agency on Thursday stated.
It said, “We have credible cause to believe that E&P may be relying on a no-objection letter in its dealings with EBID and others to raise financing and bolster their claim to the concession.”
The statement highlighted several key issues, including: legal and regulatory irregularities of alleged potential breaches of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).
It also noted concerns about regulatory forbearance and procedural shortcuts as well as alleged reputational damage risk of undermining Ghana’s international reputation as a stable mining jurisdiction. “There is a potential loss of revenue and delayed development of the mine and potential conflicts of interest and undue political influence,” the statement added.
The Minority Caucus has therefore demanded that the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources provided answers to several questions, including: approval for no-objection letter requesting date of approval and documentary proof; a formal recognition of either E&P or Azumah Resources as the legal titleholder; measures to prevent premature or illegal conferment of rights; awareness of any representations made to alleged third parties and steps taken to implement mediation and ensure neutrality.
“We call for an urgent engagement with the sector Minister and potentially an Article 103 inquiry by the Select Committee on Lands and Natural Resources,” it said.
GNA
Christian Akorlie