Lithium Deal: Minority warns against unapproved exploitation, demands parliamentary scrutiny

The Minority in Parliament has demanded the immediate presentation of the Ghana-Barari DV Ltd. lithium deal before Parliament for thorough scrutiny.

The demand comes after revelations that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources had granted a 15-year mining lease to Barari DV Ghana Ltd., a subsidiary of the Sydney-based company, for commercial lithium mining in the Central Region’s Ewoyaa area.

The company intends to commence operations in the first quarter of 2024.

A statement issued by John Jinapor, the Ranking Member of Mines and Energy, cited Article 268 of the 1992 Constitution and emphasized the necessity of obtaining prior Parliamentary approval for any transactions related to the exploitation of natural resources.

He stressed that any commercial mining of Ghana’s lithium resources without parliamentary consent would be both illegal and unconstitutional.

He warned the government and all entities involved in such activities, emphasizing the potential peril they faced for breaching constitutional mandates.

“These violations not only challenge our democratic principles but also pose severe threats to our environment, economy, and the well-being of our citizens,” Jonh Jinapor declared.

The Minority’s cautionary statement highlighted the paramount importance of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law in the nation’s developmental endeavors.

They urged the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to promptly submit all mineral agreements, including the contentious lithium deal, before Parliament to ensure a transparent and legal process.