Asante-Akim North MP Andy Appiah-Kubi has admitted that Parliament made a grave mistake in passing Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462, which permitted mining activities in forest reserves.
Speaking in an interview with TV3 on Saturday, October 12, he expressed regret over the decision, acknowledging the extensive environmental degradation caused by mining operations under this law.
“We have failed as Members of Parliament for passing LI.2462,” Appiah-Kubi stated, reflecting on the consequences of the regulation.
LI 2462, a controversial piece of legislation, allowed mining in forest reserves under specific conditions, though it exempted protected areas like globally significant biodiversity zones and cultural sites.
However, several reserves, including Draw River, Neung South, Boin Tano, and Oda River Forest Reserves, were severely impacted.
With increasing concerns from environmentalists and health professionals about the irreversible damage caused by illegal mining, commonly known as *galamsey*, Parliament is expected to revoke the law when it reconvenes on October 15.
In response to mounting pressure from organized labor and environmental advocates, the Attorney General has instructed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to submit LI 2462 to Parliament for its repeal.
Once Parliament repeals the law, all mining activities in forest reserves will be effectively banned, signaling a commitment to protecting the nation’s natural resources.
