The Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Rural Development has assured traditional leaders of the restoration of their power of summons.
Ahmed Ibrahim said that the move forms part of efforts aimed at dealing with illegal mining and other illegal communities within their jurisdiction.
He explained that by amending Section 63(D) of the Chieftaincy Act, traditional leaders will be able to summon persons implicated in illicit acts.
He was optimistic the move will also aid the local government ministry in addressing sanitation issues.
“The amendment of this section will bring back to Nananom [chiefs] the power to summon persons within their jurisdiction who indulge in harmful practices such as galamsey, which destroys our river bodies and environment,” he stated.
This was part of President John Dramani Mahama’s promise to restore the power of chiefs, which was struck down by the Supreme Court for being inconsistent with the constitution.
On his part, the President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahohuo Yaw Gyebi II, said illegal mining remains a threat to human life and the environment.
He assured the minister that the chiefs remain committed to supporting the efforts of the government on delaying galamsey.
“We have been deeply concerned about the menace of galamsey, and we will welcome and cooperate with the government to fight it,” he said.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
