The Ghana Chamber of Mines has called on Reuters to clarify aspects of its September 30, 2026 report titled “Ghana bill would give state special share rights in mining firms, draft shows,” saying the report does not sufficiently reflect the existing legal framework on special shares and the government’s stated position on mining lease durations under the proposed Minerals and Mining Bill, 2026.
In a rejoinder issued on October 7, the Chamber said the special-share provision reported by Reuters is not new, as the power already exists under Section 60 of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).
The Chamber explained that the existing law allows the Minister responsible for mines to require a mining company, by written notice, to issue a special share to the Republic without consideration.
It said the provision, which is largely carried forward under Clause 57 of the proposed Bill, gives the State consent rights over specified major corporate transactions, although the Bill proposes increased sanctions for non-compliance.
The Chamber also raised concerns about reporting on the proposed duration of mining leases, pointing to a difference between the Bill currently published by Parliament and a subsequent statement by the government.
According to the Chamber, Clause 39(2)(a) of the May 2026 version of the Bill provides for an initial mining lease of 15 years or the forecast life of the mine, whichever is shorter.
However, it noted that Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah later stated during the Government Accountability Series on July 15, 2026, that “Mining lease period is now fixed at 20 years maximum.”
The Chamber stressed that the minister’s statement represents the government’s stated policy intention but does not amend the Bill unless Parliament changes the provision during its consideration.
It is therefore urging Reuters to reflect both positions and clearly distinguish between the current text of the Bill and the government’s subsequent policy position.
The Chamber said accurate reporting of the proposed legislation is important because international coverage influences investors, lenders, mining companies, analysts and policymakers.
It reaffirmed its commitment to engaging government, Parliament and regulators on the Bill, saying reforms should strengthen governance and increase national value while maintaining predictability and competitiveness for responsible mining investment.
