The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has dismissed suggestions that Ghana should declare a state of emergency to tackle illegal mining, warning that such a measure could threaten the country’s democratic stability.
Speaking on Channel One TV on Tuesday, August 26, Mr. Nketiah admitted that illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, remains a serious national crisis. However, he argued that suspending constitutional rule in the name of fighting the menace would create more harm than good.
“Work is ongoing to address the galamsey fight, and we are hopeful of finding solutions. But I don’t subscribe to declaring a state of emergency as some people are suggesting. In frustration, you may call for certain measures that, when implemented, could later be regretted,” he cautioned.
He further explained that emergency rule could open the door to human rights abuses and abuse of power.
“If you declare a state of emergency, it means suspending the constitution. People could shoot and kill at will. How do you ensure that those committing such acts are truly fighting galamsey and not pursuing other agendas?” he asked.
Mr. Nketiah urged Ghanaians to focus on constructive, lawful, and lasting solutions to the problem. He stressed that addressing illegal mining requires broad-based reforms that protect the rule of law and democratic governance.
“The way forward must be rooted in consensus and sustainable reforms, not extraordinary measures that risk undermining our democracy,” he concluded.
