Government Pulls Lithium Deal for More Talks
The government has withdrawn the controversial lithium agreement from Parliament for further consultations with stakeholders, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, announced on Wednesday.
Addressing Parliament, Alhaji Sulemana explained that the decision stemmed from concerns voiced by civil society organizations, industry experts, and Members of Parliament across the political divide.
“Listening to my colleagues from the other side, they have made my work very easy. They have given reasons why there’s a need for us to withdraw this agreement,” he told the House.
He further stated that several NGOs and leading figures in the extractives sector had advocated for more in-depth technical assessments and broader stakeholder engagement before the deal’s resubmission. The Ministry intends to incorporate feedback from these groups.
According to the Deputy Minister, this move demonstrates the government’s commitment to accountability and transparency in the management of Ghana’s mineral wealth. “It is for that reason that the listening minister, the listening government, has decided that we will withdraw this agreement, do further work involving you, so that together we can move forward,” he added.
The lithium agreement, which aimed to regulate Ghana’s burgeoning lithium industry, has been under intense public scrutiny. Critics have consistently argued that the proposed terms did not adequately secure sufficient benefits for the nation.
Parliament is now expected to review a revised agreement once the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has completed its consultations and incorporated the necessary changes.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
