Political scientist and senior lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr Joshua Zaato, has applauded the Minority in Parliament for what he calls their ‘vicious defence and rejection’ of the government’s renegotiated lithium agreement, saying their firm stance has been crucial in generating nationwide scrutiny of the deal.

Speaking on the JoyNews AM Show on December 4, 2025, Dr Zaato said the Minority Caucus had shown ‘exceptional leadership’ by resisting what they consider to be an unfavourable arrangement for the country.

“We are here today because that small Minority in Parliament refused to be intimidated, refused to be bulldozed, refused to be harassed. They knew their stuff,” he stated.

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His remarks come amid renewed controversy surrounding the revised lithium mining lease between the government of Ghana and Barari DV Ghana Limited.

In a statement signed by the Ranking Member on the Lands and Natural Resources Committee, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, the Minority expressed disappointment with the government’s attempt to justify reducing the royalty rate from 10% to 5%.

The caucus argued that the country is now ‘worse off,’ emphasising that the previous NPP administration had agreed to a 10% royalty rate in October 2023, a rate the then-opposition NDC had described as mediocre.

They questioned what had changed to warrant a further reduction, insisting Barari DV Ghana Limited would remain profitable even under the original terms.

Dr Zaato backed these concerns, noting that the Minority’s persistent pushback has been vital in drawing public attention to the renegotiated agreement.

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He suggested that without their intervention, the government’s position might have gone unchallenged.

Debate over Ghana’s lithium resources continues to intensify, with civil society groups, industry analysts and political actors closely examining how the country can maximise benefits from its growing green minerals sector.

MRA/AE

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