The group is challenging the government’s policy of deporting foreign nationals involved in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, without putting them on trial.
The court gave this directive after a short hearing in Accra today, October 23, 2025. According to the presiding judge, the Attorney General must file a formal response to the claims made by Democracy Hub before the next sitting. The case has been adjourned to November 10, 2025, for further proceedings.
Democracy Hub argues that deporting foreign nationals accused of galamsey without trial violates Ghana’s Constitution and the country’s mining laws. They say the government’s approach is unfair because Ghanaians caught in the same act are prosecuted, while foreign nationals are simply sent back to their home countries.
The group believes that all suspects, whether Ghanaian or foreign, should face justice in Ghanaian courts to ensure equality before the law and accountability for the environmental damage caused by illegal mining.
The government, on the other hand, has previously defended the deportation policy, saying it is a quicker way to deal with foreign offenders and helps reduce pressure on the courts and prisons.
The High Court’s latest order now puts pressure on the Attorney General to justify the government’s decision. Many observers believe the outcome of this case could set an important precedent for how Ghana handles foreign nationals involved in illegal mining activities.