Abu Jinapor Urges State of Emergency on Galamsey, Reminds NDC of Promises
Former Lands Minister Calls for Urgent Action as Illegal Mining Crisis Worsens
Damongo MP and Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has called on President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC government to fulfill their pre-election promise to declare a state of emergency to combat illegal mining, widely known as galamsey.
Mr. Jinapor stated that it is both just and appropriate to demand this declaration, given the NDC’s clear commitment to it before the 2024 elections. “They were very categorical in their promises before coming to power. If they will not follow through with it, they should communicate that to the people,” he asserted.
The former Lands Minister argued that the galamsey crisis has intensified since the election, making a state of emergency even more critical. “Today, galamsey is worse off, and a state of emergency is even more needed. If a state of emergency is what is going to help curb the situation, what is avoiding us from declaring it?” he questioned.
Jinapor emphasized the importance of principled politics and consistent governance. “If we are going to build a nation, we need to be very consistent. We should insist on politics and governance of principle. Ghanaians voted for them, and they are in government now. They should do the right thing and be truthful to the people,” he said.
Meanwhile, the current Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has affirmed the government’s dedication to tackling illegal mining. He indicated that the government is considering all viable options, including a state of emergency and a temporary ban on small-scale mining, to address the problem.
