In a heated session in Parliament, the Minority is demanding transparency from government regarding its $250-million lithium mining agreement with Barari DV Ghana Limited.
The deal, signed on October 20, 2023, has come under intense scrutiny from key stakeholders, including the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) and former Chief Justice Sophia Akufo.
The mining project, slated to be established in Ewoyaa, Mfantseman Municipality in the Central Region, has raised concern about its terms and implications. The agreement proposes a 10% royalty and a 13% free carried interest in the state, surpassing the existing 5% and 10%, respectively, established in other mining agreements.
John Jinapor, the Ranking Member on the Mines and Energy Committee, addressed Parliament on Thursday, emphasizing the need for the agreement to be presented to the house for scrutiny and approval. “I want to make it loud and clear and succinct and explicit that the agreement between the government of Ghana and Barari should be laid before Parliament without delay,” he declared.
Jinapor assured the people of Ghana that the Minority would not rush the process and would seek the guidance and involvement of civil society. He also mentioned reaching out to influential figures, including former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo, who has expressed concern about the lithium agreement, describing it as “colonial” and reminiscent of the Guggisberg era.
The $250-million project is expected to commence production by 2025, contributing to the country’s economic development.
However, the growing opposition and criticism surrounding the agreement have prompted calls for thorough examination and public discourse.