Chiefs Cannot Stop Miners – CeSIS
The Executive Director for the Centre for Social and Impact Studies (CeSIS), Mr Richard kwadwo Elimah has highlighted that according to the 1992 constitution, chiefs in Ghana do not possess the legal authority to stop miners who hold valid licences.
Speaking on Nkwantannanso, he explained that, however, as a matter of courtesy and to maintain peaceful relations, miners are encouraged to engage in discussions with landowners or chiefs regarding the lands they have been granted permission to operate on, particularly when compensation is involved.
He stated, “For the sake of peace, miners are always advised to hold discussions with landowners or chiefs after a licence has been granted.”
Mr Elimah emphasised that Ghanaian law does not assign a specific role to chiefs in relation to mining, and their objections are limited to matters concerning compensation.
“In the past, the CeSIS proposed an amendment to Ghanaian law that would require chiefs to approve mining licences before they are granted, similar to the practice in Colombia.”
Regarding the recent statements by Otumfuo, the Asantehene, expressing dissatisfaction with chiefs in the Amansie area where illegal mining activities are prevalent, the CeSIS Executive Director expressed support for Otumfuo’s stance.
He noted that chiefs are the custodians of the land and should be held accountable for the proper management of natural resources within their jurisdiction.
