Cabinet approves Public Tribunals Bill to fast-track galamsey prosecutions

President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that Cabinet has approved the Public Tribunals Bill, a move aimed at accelerating the prosecution of illegal mining (galamsey) cases across the country.

The introduction of the Public Tribunals Bill, as explained by the president, is expected to strengthen the country’s resolve to clamp down on galamsey activities and reinforce the government’s commitment to safeguarding the environment.

Speaking during a meeting with the Christian Council at Jubilee House on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, the President said the new Bill will empower public tribunals to handle galamsey-related offences, easing the pressure such cases place on the traditional court system and ensuring quicker, more efficient justice delivery.

According to President Mahama, the measure forms part of the government’s broader efforts to curb environmental destruction and protect Ghana’s forests and water bodies from the harmful effects of illegal mining.

“What the Cabinet did was to pass the Public Tribunals Bill so that we will push issues related to illegal mining to the public tribunals. They will adjudicate faster and ensure that justice is seen to be done,” he explained.

“If this comes into effect, we will be able to process cases against illegal mining even quicker,” he added.