By Francis Kobena Tandoh
The Minority Caucus in Parliament on Thursday petitioned Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, calling for urgent executive action over what it describes as “a grave erosion of democratic norms” during the July 11, 2025, Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun and an escalating environmental emergency caused by the activities of illegal mining or ‘galamsey.’
In a statement submitted to the presidency and invoking Chapter 6 of the 1992 Constitution, the Minority accused government-affiliated officials and elements of the security services of either complicity or wilful neglect in the face of violence that marred the recently held by-election.
According to the Minority, the Ablekuma North rerun meant to restore parliamentary representation was instead marred by “coordinated violence, impersonation of security forces, and brutal attacks on journalists, electoral officials, and opposition figures.”
The petition cites multiple incidents at polling stations, including St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church, Awoshie DVLA, and Asiedu Gyedu Memorial School.
Among those reportedly assaulted were former Ministers Mavis Hawa Koomson and Dakoa Newman, as well as parliamentary candidate Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie.
The Caucus alleged that masked individuals dressed in brown security-style uniforms impersonated police officers and clashed violently with the Ghana Police Service, raising concerns of a premeditated attempt to undermine the electoral process.
The minority further condemned what it called the “public glorification of violence” by senior government appointees, including Dr. Hanna Bissiw, CEO of the Minerals Development Fund, and Malik Basintale, Acting CEO of the Youth Employment Agency, whose public statements endorsed and even celebrated the violence.
The Minority Caucus is demanding;
The immediate dismissal of Dr Bissiw and Basintale.
Arrest and prosecution of all individuals involved in the attacks.
An independent investigation into the Ghana Police Service, specifically implicating Chief Superintendent Fredrick Lumor Senanu.
A presidential apology to victims and a strong public condemnation of the violence.
The establishment of a Commission of Inquiry under Article 278 to probe the incidents and recommend reforms.
The statement warned that Ghana’s international image as a beacon of democratic governance is now under serious threat.
It cited breaches of international treaties such as the African Charter on Democracy, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Caucus cautioned that continued impunity could prompt diplomatic repercussions and investor anxiety.
Touching on the environment, the Minority Caucus described the illegal mining crisis as “a full-blown ecological emergency” that threatens national survival. It cited verified data from A Rocha Ghana and
Global Forest Watch, indicating a 17% increase in river turbidity and a 9% loss in forest cover in just six months.
The Yonkamba stream in the President’s hometown of Bole Bamboi was singled out as an example of the devastation, described now as “flowing with poison rather than promise.”
The Minority alleged high-level complicity, accusing District Chief Executives, political operatives, and elements of the security forces of shielding illegal miners. Investigative work by The Fourth Estate and IMANI Ghana was cited as evidence of a deeply entrenched network enabling galamsey.
Among the demands the Minority put forward regarding the environment include:
A declaration of a national state of emergency in illegal mining zones.
The repeal of Legislative Instrument 2462, said to have enabled galamsey operations.
Prosecution of all government and party officials found complicit.
Creation of an Independent Multi-Stakeholder Commission to monitor anti-galamsey efforts.
Strengthening of the Forestry and Water Resources Commissions.
Launch of a National Environmental Recovery Programme focused on afforestation, river restoration, and civic environmental education. Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
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