Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, the former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, has expressed no surprise at the response from the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice regarding his report on the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM). He had chaired the committee established to combat illegal mining.
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng cited the Office of the President, which had referred to the report as a “catalogue of personal grievances,” and claims therein were described as “unfounded” and “amounted to hearsay.” He mentioned the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his remarks about galamsey, suggesting that the Attorney-General believed Otumfuo was wrong when he spoke about politicians and powerful businessmen being behind environmental destruction.
This response followed the Attorney-General’s advice on the review of the police docket concerning Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s report. The Attorney-General concluded that there was insufficient evidence supporting the allegations contained in the report.
According to the Attorney-General, the report, the various documents, and pen drives submitted to the police failed to disclose any evidence supporting the allegations made against the individuals mentioned in the report. The Attorney-General recommended the discharge of those named, except in the case of Seth Mantey, John Ofori Atta, and Ekow Ewusi, where investigations should continue.
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng criticized the Attorney-General for dismissing the claims, emphasizing that it was important to acknowledge the destruction of the environment and its biodiversity. He urged the Attorney-General to recognize the existence of illegal mining activities involving politicians, government appointees, and Chinese nationals.
The former Minister also warned against ignoring the severe environmental consequences of these activities, stating that their impact on the country would become evident in the near future if not addressed soon.
The Attorney-General’s response to Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s report and the continuing discussions regarding illegal mining raise critical questions about environmental protection, accountability, and the responsible use of natural resources in Ghana.
