The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is raising concerns regarding the recently signed lithium deal between the government and Atlantic Lithium of Australia.
One of the primary issues brought forth by the NDC pertains to the beneficiary owners of the 4.4% equity in Barari DV.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, December 13, and signed by the National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, the party expressed suspicions of a questionable deal favouring some close associates of the government.
“Again, it is interesting to note, that under the shareholding structure of the company, there is a 4.4% Equity in the name of “Previous Land Owners”. In the spirit of transparency, the NDC demands full disclosure of the identities of the Beneficial Owners of that 4.4% Equity and how that was arrived at. Ghanaians deserve to know who these ‘previous land owners’”
The party advised Parliament not to ratify the agreement when presented before them.
“In the face of all these pertinent issues, particularly, the non-existence of a feasibility report and a mandatory requirement for the local processing of our lithium resources, the NDC is of the view, that the Ghana-Barari Lithium deal is not in the best interest of Ghana.”
“Thus, the ratification of the Mining Lease agreement executed by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP Government, should not even arise at this stage.
“It is our considered position, that Parliament should not consider the ratification of the Lease Agreement until all these pertinent issues are satisfactorily addressed in the best interest of Ghanaians,” the statement added.
Growing pressure is mounting on the government to reconsider the lithium deal, fueled by concerns that Ghana may not be receiving fair benefits.
The discourse centres on potential resource exploitation and perceived inadequacies in the country’s gains, leading to calls for increased transparency and fairness.
Notable figures, including former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo and seasoned private legal practitioner Sam Okudzeto, have expressed their opposition to the deal.
According to the former Chief Justice, the current contract reflects a colonial and Guggisberg-type arrangement.
The $250-million project, located in Ewoyaa, Mfantseman Municipality in the Central Region, is scheduled to commence production in 2025.
The deal includes a 10% royalty and 13% free carried interest for the state, surpassing the existing 5% and 10% in other mining agreements.
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