The Coordinator of Eco-Conscious Citizens, Awula Serwah, has voiced strong disappointment over the government’s decision to amend, rather than revoke Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, which permits mining in Ghana’s forest reserves.
Speaking on Joy Prime’s Newsfile, she stated, “We believe the minister means well, but we are greatly disappointed.
“When His Excellency, the President, was in opposition, he clearly stated that he would revoke L.I. 2462. He was fully aware that certain companies had already made investments, yet he prioritized the greater good of Ghanaians and the protection of our forests.”
Serwah criticized the government’s shift in stance, arguing that the amendment still allows mining in protected areas.
“Now, instead of revocation, we are hearing about amendments, which still allow mining in forest reserves,” she said.
She further described the law as poorly implemented and lacking transparency. “This is a very bad law. It was passed without proper consultation—clandestinely.
“If someone says they would put their presidency on the line, yet things only get worse, then we must ask: What real difference does this amendment make compared to a full revocation?”
Serwah insisted that revoking the law would not weaken environmental protections but rather reinforce stricter enforcement.
“We are being misled. The L.I. 2462 is not what ensures protection. The Forestry Commission already has a duty to safeguard our forests.
“Revoking this law would not remove environmental officers’ ability to do their jobs—it would reinforce the need for stricter enforcement.”
