The National Coordinator of Echo Conscious Citizens, Awula Serwaa, has expressed deep disappointment over statements made by Martin Ayisi, CEO of the Minerals Commission, during his appearance before the Government Assurance Committee.
Speaking on the Ghana Tonight show on October 7, Awula Serwaa criticized Ayisi’s response regarding the ongoing issue of illegal mining in the country. She noted that the CEO is well aware of the nation’s current challenges and the damaging effects of illegal mining but has failed to take the necessary steps to address the situation.
“Organized labour has called for a ban, and Civil Society Oanizations (CSOs) are pushing for a pause on small-scale mining because the authorities are unable to monitor effectively. Just because someone has a license doesn’t mean they will do the right thing,” she stated.
During his appearance before the committee, Ayisi revealed that he has not been instructed to halt the issuance of mining licenses, explaining that he continues to process applications for small-scale mining. “I have not received any instructions from the government to say, ‘can you hold on? So, as we speak, my officers are online processing applications for small-scale mining that have been received over the period,” Ayisi said.
This statement follows revelations by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, on The Key Points show on TV3. Ablakwa disclosed that on October 3, 2024, while the president was meeting with organized labour to discuss solutions to the illegal mining crisis, new licenses were issued to 11 mining companies.