Prof Appiagyei-Atua: GoldBod CEO’s Stance on Unlicensed Mining Violates the Law

Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua has stated that comments attributed to the Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod suggesting that unlicensed mining should be permitted amount to a breach of the law.

The law professor’s reaction follows remarks by the GoldBod CEO that appeared to condone mining without the requisite licences. Professor Appiagyei-Atua, an expert in legal and governance matters, emphasized that Ghana’s mining framework clearly requires operators to obtain licences before engaging in any mining activity, and any suggestion to the contrary undermines the legal regime governing the sector.

According to the professor, allowing individuals or entities to mine without licences contravenes established legislation and poses serious risks to the regulation of the mining industry. He noted that licensing requirements exist to ensure proper oversight, environmental protection, and the collection of appropriate revenues for the state. Bypassing these requirements, he argued, would weaken accountability and encourage impunity in a sector already grappling with illegal mining challenges.

Professor Appiagyei-Atua’s comments add a prominent legal voice to the debate over mining regulation in Ghana, particularly in light of ongoing concerns about galamsey and the enforcement of mining laws. His position reinforces the view that compliance with licensing procedures is not optional but a legal obligation for anyone seeking to undertake mining operations.

The professor’s intervention also highlights the potential consequences of public officials making statements that could be interpreted as endorsing unlawful conduct. He stressed that officials bear a responsibility to uphold and respect the law, and that comments appearing to sanction unlicensed mining could send the wrong signal to operators and the public alike.

The reaction underscores the sensitivity surrounding mining regulation in Ghana and the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal framework. As the debate continues, Professor Appiagyei-Atua’s stance serves as a reminder that adherence to licensing requirements remains central to lawful and sustainable mining in the country.

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