The Minority in Parliament is calling for the publication of the state’s enforcement record on illegal mining, or galamsey, across all political parties, as it pushes for closer judicial scrutiny of the judgement involving NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi.
In a statement, the caucus urged the Court of Appeal to examine what it described as “defects” in the ruling with “equal and unflinching rigour.”
Specifically, the Minority wants the appellate court to review issues around the denial of counsel, the principle of veil-piercing, and other procedural concerns raised in the case.
“The public deserves transparency on how the state has applied the law on galamsey without fear or favour, regardless of political affiliation,” the Minority said.
It argued that publishing the enforcement data will show whether actions against illegal mining have been consistent across the political divide.
The group further stressed that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, and that the Court of Appeal has a duty to address the alleged irregularities in the Wontumi judgement to preserve public confidence in the judiciary.
Wontumi is currently facing legal proceedings related to galamsey and other charges. The Court of Appeal is expected to hear related matters in the coming weeks.