Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi, has warned that if comprehensive and productive engagements are not held, the next National Democratic Congress (NDC) government will be forced to revoke all mining licences granted in his constituency.
He emphasised the need for stakeholders to come together to address the concerns of the community.
“I must state for the record that, without comprehensive and productive engagements, the incoming NDC government will revoke all these licenses,” he cautioned.
The Ranking Member on the Committee on Trade, Industry, and Tourism expressed strong concerns over the numerous licenses granted to large-scale mining operators by the current Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, within his constituency.
He also condemned the violent treatment of local youth by military personnel deployed to protect Chinese nationals allegedly engaged in prospecting activities in the area, highlighting the need for urgent attention to these issues.
On June 24, the Minerals Commission dismissed allegations made by the Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi, Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, that mining concessions were granted to foreigners without proper consultations.
In a statement, Alhaji Sulemana clarified his earlier comments, stating that his concerns about the lack of stakeholder engagement prior to the issuance of mining licenses were not intended to implicate the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, and were instead meant to highlight the need for more inclusive decision-making processes in the mining sector.
He emphasised that his utmost priority is to maintain harmony and stability in the region, and he is committed to ensuring that the concerns of all stakeholders are addressed in a peaceful and constructive manner.
He welcomed the fact that the Minerals Commission has taken steps to engage with the local chiefs and community members over the past few days and expressed his appreciation for this positive development in addressing the concerns and fostering a collaborative approach.
“I am pleased that the Commission has initiated engagements with the chiefs and people of the area over the past few days.”
Click to read the statement by Bole-Bamboi MP
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