Security analyst Andrews Asiedu Tetteh has asserted that President John Dramani Mahama’s refusal to declare a State of Emergency as a measure to combat illegal mining, popularly known as ‘galamsey,’ is a significant misstep.
Mr Tetteh argues that based on recent attacks on anti-galamsey task forces and the level of weaponry wielded by illegal miners and their associates, an immediate declaration of a State of Emergency is necessary to swiftly end the menace.
He issued a stark warning that this escalating lawlessness and criminality among illegal miners could potentially lower the threshold for civil conflict or coups d’état in the country.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5Fm, Tetteh stated, “At this point, we must declare a State of Emergency.
The scale of destruction to our water bodies and forest reserves has intensified. These illegal miners are becoming increasingly organized and emboldened. They are accumulating weapons and operating with greater ruthlessness.”
He continued: “They will soon challenge our security forces with firearms, and we may lose control. That is why it is critical for us to declare the State of Emergency immediately. Failure to address this issue may create an environment conducive to civil war or lead to a coup d’état.”
Andrews Asiedu Tetteh expressed particular disappointment that President John Dramani Mahama reportedly declined to declare the State of Emergency, citing a lack of advice from his national security apparatus.
The security analyst further noted that if a referendum were organized today, he believes 80 percent of Ghanaians would endorse the State of Emergency. He suggested that the government’s refusal might stem from a “hidden or secret” issue it is reluctant to disclose to the public.
”We may reach a point where our security personnel lack the necessary capability to fight galamsey. The illegal miners have mobilized and are operating with weapons superior to those used by our state security. The government is not even aware of the full inventory of firearms held by these miners. They have the resources to heavily weaponize their operations. We must stop them,” he stressed.
To address the enforcement gap, Tetteh proposed the establishment of fast-track and specialized courts dedicated solely to illegal mining cases, ensuring that those arrested are prosecuted without undue delay.
He concluded by strongly urging the President to “prioritize our security and declare a State of Emergency. He is gradually sending this country into a state of anarchy.” Tetteh also criticized past administrations, claiming that while in opposition, they “incited citizens against our military and security agencies, and after taking office, they were overwhelmed by the challenges. Former President Akufo-Addo and former IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare failed to act and watched as lawlessness thrived.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana