The Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), Sammy Gyamfi, has refuted claims that the GoldBod Bill was hurriedly passed, insisting that it underwent rigorous stakeholder consultations and parliamentary scrutiny before approval.
In a detailed response, Mr. Gyamfi outlined the processes leading to the bill’s passage, dismissing accusations by the NPP Minority that it was rushed. According to him, the initiative to establish the GoldBod began in January 2025, following his appointment by President John Mahama, with the Finance Minister overseeing its development.
He stated that consultations started early, involving key industry stakeholders such as the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, the Chamber of Bullion Traders, the Bank of Ghana, the Minerals Commission, and the Minerals Income Investment Fund. These engagements, he noted, ensured that the bill was well-structured to regulate gold trading effectively.
A technical committee was subsequently formed to draft the bill, holding multiple engagements with industry players, civil society organizations, and regional stakeholders in areas such as Akyem Tafo, Kumasi, and Tarkwa. Mr. Gyamfi emphasized that these meetings allowed for broad input into the policy framework before it was finalized.
In Parliament, the bill was subjected to thorough examination by the Joint Committee on Finance and Lands and Natural Resources. The NPP Minority, led by its spokesperson on finance, requested amendments, many of which were incorporated. The bill was later refined through a winnowing process before being reintroduced for final approval.
Mr. Gyamfi argued that despite the NPP’s eventual walkout during the bill’s consideration, their leadership had been actively involved in shaping its content. He dismissed the opposition’s press conference labeling the GoldBod as a “Galamsey Board” as a political gimmick, stressing that the bill reflects bipartisan contributions.
“The claim that the bill was rushed is completely false. It underwent an extensive 68-day process, with widespread consultations and robust parliamentary debate,” he asserted.
The GoldBod Bill, now awaiting presidential assent, seeks to streamline gold trade, curb smuggling, and enhance government oversight of the industry.
