Speaker Alban Bagbin condemns alleged MP-instigated attack on anti-galamsey taskforce and pledges full cooperation with investigations

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has issued a firm condemnation following reports of an alleged attack on an anti-galamsey taskforce in Asutifi South, purportedly instigated by a sitting Member of Parliament. Addressing the House in a formal communique on Tuesday, he described the incident as “deeply troubling” and reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.

Mr Bagbin assured the Ghana Police Service and the public that Parliament will fully cooperate with ongoing investigations. He stressed that no MP would be shielded from legal scrutiny if found culpable in any form of obstruction, incitement, or interference with justice. He further directed the Office of the Clerk and the Legal Service Office of Parliament to provide all necessary support to assist the Police.

The Speaker’s statement follows allegations that Mr Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, MP for Asutifi North, may have encouraged community members to confront and attack operatives of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), who were undertaking an anti-galamsey operation in Bronikrom along the Goaso–Hwidiem road in the Ahafo Region.

Mr Bagbin reminded MPs of the need for comportment and adherence to the 1992 Constitution and the Standing Orders of Parliament. He emphasised that while MPs enjoy certain privileges and immunities when the House is in session, these are not absolute and must be exercised within the confines of the law.

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Meanwhile, Mr Addo has denied the allegations and has voluntarily presented himself to the Ghana Police Service to assist with the investigations.

The attack adds to a series of violent confrontations between illegal miners and anti-galamsey enforcement teams across the country. Illegal small-scale mining, widely known as galamsey, continues to pose severe environmental and social threats, with government crackdowns frequently met with resistance.

Speaker Bagbin’s decisive stance signals Parliament’s support for national efforts to protect the environment and uphold lawful enforcement actions, sending a clear message that no political figure will be allowed to undermine the fight against galamsey.