The Coalition Against Galamsey has called on President John Mahama to declare a state of emergency in areas severely affected by illegal mining activities.
According to the Coalition’s Convenor, Dr Kenneth Ashigbey, the situation has spiraled out of control and now poses a direct threat to lives, public health, and the environment. He argued that the Constitution empowers the President to declare a state of emergency when criminal activities endanger essential national resources, including water and the safety of communities.
“Illegal miners are polluting critical water bodies, denying entire communities access to clean drinking water, a fundamental necessity for life,” Dr. Ashigbey stated.
He clarified that the call is not for a nationwide declaration, but for targeted action in the most affected regions, where environmental destruction is most acute. Declaring a state of emergency in these zones, he said, would provide the government with the legal authority to respond swiftly and decisively.
Dr. Ashigbey also urged the President to set clear timelines and measurable targets to guide and evaluate the fight against illegal mining. This, he noted, would demonstrate the government’s commitment to ending the galamsey menace.
“The time for hesitation is over. A state of emergency is no longer a last resort, it is now an urgent necessity to protect Ghanaians and secure the country’s future,” the Coalition emphasized
