Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament (MPs), stating that those found engaging in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, will be stripped of their parliamentary seats.

His declaration comes amid growing national concern over the destructive impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment, particularly its water bodies and forests.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, January 30, Bagbin called on the public to submit credible evidence against any lawmaker involved in the illicit activity, assuring that such reports would be acted upon decisively.

“If you have evidence of any member indulging in Galamsey, draw my attention. I will put in motion a process where you will lose your membership as a member of parliament. Please bring the information to my notice.

“We will take action. That is how we can fight Galamsey. I mean what I am saying, I am not joking, unless you hide such information from me. If I get any credible information on any of you on this matter, I am going to initiate the process and you can lose your seat as a member of parliament.

“The law is there to enable us to do that,” he stressed.

Bagbin’s statement signals a strong commitment by Parliament to combat illegal mining, which has long been a contentious issue in Ghana due to its environmental and socio-economic consequences. His remarks also serve as a direct warning to lawmakers who may be complicit in the menace.