President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that Cabinet has approved the Public Tribunals Bill, a major step aimed at fast-tracking the prosecution of illegal mining (galamsey) offences.
Addressing the Christian Council at Jubilee House on Tuesday, October 18, 2025, the President said the new tribunal system would ease pressure on the regular courts and help deliver swifter, more efficient justice.
“Cabinet has passed the Public Tribunals Bill so that we can push illegal mining cases to the public tribunals. They will adjudicate faster and ensure justice is seen to be done,” President Mahama said.
He noted that quicker prosecution would strengthen deterrence and reinforce national resolve to protect Ghana’s forests, rivers, and farmlands from the devastating impact of galamsey.
The Bill forms part of the government’s broader strategy to stop environmental destruction and reclaim damaged ecosystems.
President Mahama further outlined his long-term vision to build a strong governance and economic framework that future leaders cannot easily dismantle.
“My mission is to use the mandate Ghanaians have given me to move Ghana to a level where anybody who comes after cannot reverse the gains we have made,” he said.
The President cited rising political instability in parts of Africa and beyond as evidence of the need for strong, durable institutions that can withstand political transitions.
He added that his administration is intensifying efforts to fortify governance, strengthen accountability, stabilise the economy, and pursue corruption-related cases involving officials of the previous administration—steps he said are vital to protecting public resources.
