MinCom dismisses MP’s allegations against Lands Minister

The Minerals Commission (MinCom) has rejected allegations made by the Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi, Mr. Yusif Sulemana, against the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Samuel Abu Jinapor.

The MP had accused the Minister of granting mining concessions to foreign entities without proper consultations, but the Commission says the claim is baseless and unfounded.

The Commission’s response

In a press statement, Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Mr. Martin K. Ayisi, emphasized that the Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and the Minerals and Mining (Licensing) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2176) required consultation with relevant persons and institutions before granting mineral rights. The Commission publishes a notice in the Gazette and serves copies to affected parties, allowing them to raise concerns.

The MP’s allegations

Mr. Yusif Sulemana had claimed that the Minister and the Minerals Commission bypassed proper consultation processes, leading to heightened tension in the Bole-Bamboi constituency. He also alleged that some NPP executives were assaulted by soldiers guarding mining sites.

The Commission’s reiteration

The Commission reiterated its commitment to following legal and regulatory procedures in granting mineral rights. All relevant parties are consulted and given the opportunity to raise their concerns.

The Minerals Commission’s statement urged the public to disregard the false narrative being propagated by the MP for Bole-Bamboi, as it lacks any basis.