Mahama Rejects State of Emergency for Galamsey Fight, Cites Existing Laws as Sufficient
President John Mahama has ruled out declaring a state of emergency to combat illegal mining, known as galamsey, emphasizing that existing laws provide sufficient authority to address the issue. Speaking at a media encounter in Accra on Wednesday, September 10, Mahama responded to growing public demands for tougher measures but cautioned against rushing into drastic actions.
“I’ve been reluctant to implement a state of emergency because we haven’t exhausted the powers we already have,” Mahama said. He highlighted that government agencies are empowered to arrest offenders, seize equipment, and enforce forest protection laws without needing emergency measures.
Mahama acknowledged the appeal of a state of emergency but stressed it should be a last resort. “It might sound nice, but let’s exercise all the powers we have first. If it becomes necessary, then we’ll consider it,” he added. The statement comes amid concerns over galamsey’s environmental impact, including water pollution that has driven a proposed 280% tariff hike by the Ghana Water Company Limited.
The President’s approach focuses on enforcing current regulations, such as tracking excavators and penalizing illegal operators, to curb galamsey’s devastating effects.
