The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor has characterized proposals for a state of emergency to address illegal mining, also called galamsey, as “draconian and far-reaching.”
The minister, addressing the media in Accra, recognized the widespread public outcry and increasing frustration regarding the harmful impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment.
Nevertheless, he warned against calling for a state of emergency, stating that it may result in increased social and economic unrest.
He emphasized that although combating galamsey is a key focus for the government, drastic actions could lead to unforeseen impacts on the economy, people’s livelihoods, and governance.
“Declaring a state of emergency, that is in the bosom of the president, but I find that being far-reaching, [being] a very draconian measure to take.
“So we will engage him and we will have this conversation, and I believe out of that, we maybe need to come up with some consensus that we can work with.”
NKONKONSA.com