The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called for an independent investigation into allegations of institutionalised corruption in illegal mining operations following an undercover documentary by Joy News, warning that compromised enforcement mechanisms threaten both environmental protection and the rule of law.
In a statement issued Tuesday February 17, 2026, the bishops expressed “deep concern” over findings presented in the investigative piece titled “A Tax for Galamsey,” which allegedly exposed a parallel system of taxation operating within the Amansie Central District.
According to the bishops’ statement, signed by Conference President Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, reports indicate that the District Assembly and a dedicated task force, allegedly acting under the instruction of the District Chief Executive, compelled illegal miners to pay registration fees.
The bishops cited a petition submitted to President John Dramani Mahama indicating that operators of Changfang machines were allegedly charged approximately GHS3,000 per machine, while excavator operators paid higher levies. Official stickers and receipts were reportedly issued in connection with these payments.
“State institutions mandated to protect the environment and enforce the law are alleged to have participated in the very activities they are required to prevent,” the statement read. “If substantiated, this would constitute a grave breach of public trust.”
The Conference further expressed concern over allegations that officials connected with disaster management structures demanded additional payments to prevent enforcement action. “If verified, this would indicate systemic misconduct affecting multiple institutions,” the bishops stated.
The Catholic Bishops noted that over the past three decades, they have consistently spoken about the environmental and social consequences of illegal mining, including pollution of water bodies, degradation of agricultural land, displacement of communities, and loss of life due to unsafe mining practices.
“The challenge posed by illegal mining is therefore a matter of national importance. It concerns environmental protection, lawful governance, and responsibility towards future generations,” the statement emphasised. “This moment calls for clarity, integrity, and decisive leadership.”
The Conference endorsed four proposals presented to the government by JoyNews to address the situation:
First, the President should establish an independent and transparent investigation into the matters raised, with the process being “thorough, impartial, and credible in order to command public confidence.” The bishops recommended that the investigation examine whether similar practices exist in other districts.
Second, officials credibly implicated should be interdicted pending investigation outcomes to protect the integrity of the process.
Third, a full public audit should be conducted of all Assembly revenues and accounts connected with mining-related activities in the district, with full cooperation from relevant oversight bodies including the Minerals Commission.
Fourth, oversight mechanisms governing anti-galamsey operations should be strengthened nationwide, including clear accountability structures, improved monitoring systems, and adequate protection for whistleblowers.
The bishops stressed that while all allegations must be examined in accordance with due process and the presumption of innocence respected, “credible claims require a prompt, transparent, and decisive response. Delay or inaction would risk further weakening public trust.”
The statement assured investigative journalists and activists fighting against illegal mining of the Conference’s prayers, noting that their lives “are often threatened by the illegal miners.”
“We remain committed to supporting lawful efforts to restore institutional integrity and to safeguard God’s creation for present and future generations,” the bishops concluded.
By: Vanessa Kekeli Yeboah//Newswatchgh.com
