Following President John Dramani Mahama’s comments on illegal mining (galamsey) during his first media encounter of his second term, a wave of criticism has erupted online, with many Ghanaians accusing him of going against his campaign promises.
The President, speaking to the media and state on September 10, stated that declaring a state of emergency over galamsey would be a last resort, stressing that existing laws already give the government sufficient powers to act.
However, his remarks have been met with disappointment, and many Ghanaians have taken to social media platforms to express their displeasure.
Several people also say that his comments contradict the firm stance he took against the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration when in opposition.
“You don’t frame galamsey as a weak leadership and political will problem in opposition and expect some grace when power is handed over to you. In the end, our environment pays the price. If you promised a quick fix, you’ll be judged by it,” a user (@amintheother) on X wrote.
Galamsey remains one of Ghana’s most pressing challenges, with devastating effects on the environment, water bodies, agriculture, and public health.
Many citizens had hope that Mahama would adopt a more aggressive approach to the menace, considering his past criticism of weak leadership on the issue.
Many are questioning the government’s reluctance to declare a state of emergency, pointing out that the NDC once urged the previous government to do just that.
In the midst of it all, there remains growing calls on the President to take immediate and decisive action
