Presidential spokesperson and Member of Parliament for Abura Asebu Kwamankese, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has assured Ghanaians that the government is fully aware of the growing national concern over illegal mining and has already activated strong measures to combat the menace.
In response to recent public unease about President Mahama’s decision not to immediately declare a state of emergency, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu urged citizens to understand the complexities involved and affirmed that the president is acting in the nation’s best interest.
“Let me first say that the government appreciates the genuine concern surrounding the issue of galamsey because of the threat that it poses. It has naturally become an emotive subject. People are deeply concerned, and they want urgent action. Government understands that fully—and such urgent action is underway,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu said.
Addressing the criticisms regarding the absence of a state of emergency declaration, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu explained that while the president has not ruled out that possibility, current efforts are focused on conventional responses that are already yielding results.
“The president did state that there are conventional approaches currently being deployed which he believes will help us wipe out this menace once and for all,” he affirmed.
However, he cautioned that invoking a state of emergency is a weighty and exceptional step, with implications that go far beyond the political optics of decisiveness.
“A state of emergency is a pretty severe measure. I’m sure you are fully aware. It essentially means setting aside the law as it currently stands and adopting extraordinary, sometimes very harsh and drastic measures in order to beat back a particular problem. It comes with its own difficulties,” he explained.
He added that such an intervention must be based on solid evidence and proper evaluation of the situation’s urgency, saying: “The declaration of a state of emergency must be backed by tangible reasoning. You must have sufficient basis to do that, so that you are clear that the consequences will be worth the effort.”
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu emphasised that the president continues to assess the matter carefully, guided by information from security agencies and field operatives already on the ground.
“As president, he has to take that decision based on the information available to him and his assessment of the capabilities of the assets deployed. He believes earnestly that some gains are being made which could be sustained.”
He acknowledged that should the situation escalate to a level where existing strategies are no longer effective, the president will not hesitate to act more drastically.
“As and when we get to a point where it is absolutely necessary to deploy those measures, which may involve some discomfort for citizens and may not be entirely in line with how our laws usually function, he will take the decision.”
For now, the presidential spokesperson called for patience and collective effort, insisting that a state of emergency has not been ruled out entirely.
