Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey petitions Mahama to investigate Aowin MP over illegal mining allegations

The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to take decisive action regarding allegations of illegal mining involving the Member of Parliament for Aowin, Oscar Larbi.
In a letter to the Office of the Presidency dated January 30, the coalition, which includes media, labour groups, faith-based organisations, and traditional authorities, highlighted the need for urgent intervention to address this issue.
The petition is occasioned by the ongoing destruction of the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Aowin Municipality, Western North Region, which is being fuelled by illegal mining activities.
Reports indicate that illegal miners have overrun the reserve, causing significant forest loss.
In response, the Aowin Traditional Council held a press conference on 27th January 2025, during which they accused the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Aowin Constituency, Oscar Larbi of involvement in the illegal mining operations that are devastating the once-thriving forest.
In its petition to President Mahama, the Coalition is demanding an independent investigation involving key agencies such as the Ghana Police Service, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Minerals Commission to uncover the facts and hold accountable any individuals or entities found culpable in the destruction.
It is also calling for immediate action against any MP or government official found to be involved in illegal mining activities.
The Coalition also petitioned the Speaker of Parliament and the Inspector General of Police on the matter and stressed that addressing these allegations is critical to maintaining public trust in the government’s commitment to fighting galamsey.
Read the full petition below.
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