President John Dramani Mahama has stated that the National Security Council (NSC) does not currently see the need to declare a state of emergency in the government’s ongoing fight against illegal mining, widely known as galamsey.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement on illegal mining in Accra, the President acknowledged that while he holds constitutional authority to declare a state of emergency, such action must be guided by the NSC’s advice. At present, the Council believes that the battle against galamsey can be effectively managed using existing legal, regulatory, and security mechanisms.
“Yes, I have the power to do it,” President Mahama explained. “But the president acts not only on his authority but also on the advice of the National Security Council… As of now, the National Security Council believes that we can win the fight against galamsey without a state of emergency.”
However, the President stressed that he would not hesitate to invoke emergency powers should the nation’s security leadership determine it necessary.
“The day they advise me otherwise — that now we need a state of emergency — I will not hesitate in declaring it,” he affirmed.
Mounting Pressure for Tougher Action
Mahama’s comments come at a time of intensified pressure from civil society organisations, faith-based groups, and environmental activists, who continue to call on government to adopt stronger measures to halt the destructive practice. Illegal mining has devastated vast stretches of Ghana’s forest reserves, rivers, and farmlands, sparking nationwide alarm over its long-term environmental and economic consequences.
Government’s Current Approach
Despite not invoking emergency measures, Mahama reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to the anti-galamsey fight. He highlighted ongoing reforms, prosecutions, and inter-agency operations aimed at dismantling illegal mining networks and rehabilitating degraded lands and water bodies.
“We still believe we have the power to win this fight,” he said, urging stakeholders to continue supporting the government’s efforts.
The galamsey menace remains one of Ghana’s most pressing governance challenges, pitting the need for environmental protection and sustainable development against economic hardship and unemployment that often drive young people into illegal mining.
Source – My News Ghana
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