Elikem Kotoko urges repeal of L.I. 2462 to fight illegal mining
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Elikem Kotoko, is calling on the government to adopt tougher measures to combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, following the August 6 helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.
The victims were reportedly on assignment related to galamsey operations.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s “The Point of View” with Sammie Wiafe, Mr. Kotoko stressed the urgency of decisive policy action, suggesting that the government consider repealing Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462 to better protect Ghana’s forests and water bodies.
L.I 2462 allows for mining activities within Ghana’s forest reserves under certain conditions.
“I’m aware of information that President John Dramani Mahama may soon announce tougher decisions. I will not be surprised if it includes the repeal of L.I. 2462. It’s a clarion call on all of us. These people who engage in this enterprise, excuse me to say, are largely heartless and do not care what words you come and put out here.”
“But there must be some disincentives, measures that will be punitive enough,” he said.
He explained that stronger deterrents are needed beyond legislation.
“Words are no longer enough. There must be real consequences, punitive measures that truly discourage illegal mining,” he added.
The fatal helicopter crash has reignited national debate over the government’s handling of illegal mining, with environmental advocates and civil society groups describing it as an act of environmental terrorism.
Some critics have faulted the President for not using the tragedy as an opportunity to declare a state of emergency on galamsey.
Environmental experts argue that L.I. 2462, a regulatory instrument introduced to guide small-scale mining, has unintentionally emboldened illegal operators, exacerbating the destruction of forest reserves and water sources.
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