National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has firmly opposed suggestions to declare a state of emergency in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, warning it could destabilize the country and undermine democratic governance.
Speaking on the issue, Mr. Nketiah acknowledged the severity of the galamsey crisis but cautioned against extreme measures.
“Work is being done about the galamsey fight, and we hope to be able to find solutions to it. But I don’t subscribe to the declaration of the state of emergency as other people are suggesting,” he said.
He argued that emergency rule could lead to unchecked violence and constitutional suspension.
“If you intend to deal with galamsey and you declare a state of emergency, it means you have suspended the constitution. People can shoot and kill at will”.
Instead, the NDC Chairman urged Ghanaians to support lawful and sustainable reforms, stating that real progress lies in strengthening institutions, not bypassing them.
“In your frustration, you can call for certain measures that, when we begin implementing, you may live to regret.”
