Minister proposes fast-track court to speed up prosecution of forest destruction

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has called for the establishment of a fast-track court to expedite the prosecution of individuals responsible for destroying Ghana’s forests.
In an interview with JoyNews on March 19, Mr. Buah stated that both the Attorney General and the Chief Justice have expressed support for the proposal.
“The time has come for us to set up a fast-track court to prosecute those destroying our forest reserves,” he said.
He confirmed that he had discussed the idea with the country’s top legal authorities, including the Chief Justice and the Attorney General.
The minister emphasized that combating illegal activities in the forest sector requires collaboration, as his ministry does not have police or military authority.
“This ministry can only succeed with the support of these agencies. We depend on them to enforce the law, and so far, the response has been positive,” he added.
The proposed fast-track court aims to accelerate legal proceedings against illegal miners, loggers, and others responsible for harming Ghana’s forests.