The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has raised serious concerns about the government’s Goldbod initiative, warning that it could ultimately benefit illegal miners, known locally as galamseyers, rather than serve the national interest.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Friday, 2nd May, he criticised the programme as lacking the necessary safeguards to prevent abuse and misappropriation.
According to Mr Afenyo-Markin, while the intention behind Goldbod may appear noble, the reality on the ground suggests otherwise.
“This whole idea of Goldbod is not in the national interest. We’ve seen similar programmes before, and they end up in the hands of galamseyers and politically-connected individuals,” he stated.
He argued that without strict regulation and oversight, the initiative would simply become another conduit for illegal mining activities.
The Minority Leader further questioned the government’s commitment to fighting illegal mining, pointing out the contradictions between policy announcements and enforcement.
“How do you say you’re combating galamsey and at the same time roll out a scheme that could easily be hijacked by the very actors destroying our environment?” he asked.
Mr Afenyo-Markin called for a thorough review of the programme and greater stakeholder consultation to ensure transparency and accountability.
He concluded by urging the government to prioritise long-term environmental protection over short-term financial gains.
“If we truly care about the future of our natural resources, then we must design policies that are sustainable and resistant to abuse. Goldbod, in its current form, does not meet that test,” he insisted.
