Mahama: State of Emergency ‘Not Yet Necessary’ in Galamsey Fight

President John Dramani Mahama has stated that his administration is not in a rush to declare a state of emergency in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. He insists that existing laws provide sufficient authority to tackle the menace effectively. Speaking at his media encounter in Accra on Wednesday, September 10, the President acknowledged the growing public pressure for more drastic measures against illegal mining activities. However, he cautioned against resorting to a state of emergency prematurely.

“I’ve been reluctant to implement a state of emergency in the galamsey fight because we’ve not exhausted the powers we even have without a state of emergency,” President Mahama explained. He went on to detail how current laws allow for a comprehensive approach. For instance, he stated, “We have the opportunity to arrest anybody, to confiscate any such thing.” The laws for forest protection and others give his administration enough power to act. This is his clear position on the matter, outlining the official strategy of Mahama on galamsey fight.

He emphasized that a state of emergency should be considered only as a last resort. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to enforcing existing regulations more vigorously. The president is a firm believer in the power of the law. “Implementing a state of emergency might sound nice, but it should be the last resort. So for now, let’s exercise all the powers we haveand if it becomes necessary for a state of emergency, then we look at it,” he added. The president’s statements reflect a cautious and strategic approach to a complex problem. His administration’s focus remains on implementing existing legal frameworks to combat illegal mining effectively and sustainably. This measured response aims to balance public demands with a pragmatic approach to governance as indicated by Mahama on galamsey fight sermon.