National Democratic Congress (NDC) communications team member Julius Fieve has acknowledged concerns over illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, but disagreed with calls for the government to declare a state of emergency to address the menace.
He argued that the government was already taking steps to tackle illegal mining and should be given the opportunity to intensify its efforts before more drastic measures are considered.
Speaking to Isaac Addae on Morning Starr on Starr FM, Mr Fieve said he respected the concerns raised by moral institutions, particularly the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, but maintained that the situation did not warrant an immediate declaration of a state of emergency.
“I respect the opinions of the moral institutions, but I don’t, in a very humble way, agree on declaring a state of emergency,” he said.
He described the Catholic Bishops’ Conference as an important institution whose views on national issues deserved serious consideration, noting its role in bringing Ghanaians together across religious and social divides.
“I find it very difficult coming against whatever they are saying because they are the last point of hope we have as a country,” he stated.
READ: Galamsey: ‘We’re concerned about criminals’ livelihoods, not farmers’ – Awula Serwah
Despite acknowledging concerns about the destruction caused by illegal mining, Mr Fieve insisted that the government remained committed to addressing the problem and was continuing to assess the situation.
He said the security agencies and other relevant institutions would be better placed to advise the government on whether a state of emergency had become necessary.
“When that time comes right for a state of emergency to be declared, those institutions will be in a better position to advise government,” he said.
READ: Galamsey threatens food safety beyond mining communities – Eco-Conscious Citizens Director
He maintained that the President would act on the advice of the relevant institutions if circumstances warranted such a decision, expressing optimism that the government’s efforts to tackle galamsey would eventually yield results.
Story By: Pamela Quayson
