Newly sworn-in Court of Appeal Judge and Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, has dismissed mounting calls for a state of emergency to be declared over the country’s worsening illegal mining crisis, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking to journalists after the swearing-in of new judges by President John Dramani Mahama, Justice Agyeman Badu II argued that such an extreme measure is unnecessary and could have economic repercussions.
“No, no, it has not come to that. Let us look at how much Ghana gains in terms of galamsey. Once you declare a state of emergency, you ask yourself who can do what. If we’re not able to get those resources, there will be a gap,” he explained.
While acknowledging the environmental destruction caused by galamsey, the Dormaahene insisted that the solution lies in responsible mining, not emergency declarations.
“Nobody will argue that there shouldn’t be mining, but it should be done responsibly. That will solve the whole thing. People who are doing galamsey are destroying themselves; there’s a need to stop galamsey,” he stated.
Justice Agyeman Badu II issued a strong call to traditional leaders, urging chiefs across the country to take active roles in confronting illegal mining within their jurisdictions.
“I want to appeal to the chiefs—we the chiefs—we shouldn’t say we don’t have the power. If somebody is not allowing people to do galamsey, why can’t you do it? In Dormaa, if you come there, I will arrest you and give you to the police so that you will be prosecuted,” he warned.
The Dormaahene emphasised that chiefs wield significant authority at the community level and must not shy away from using it to protect the environment and safeguard their lands for future generations.
He further cautioned individuals engaged in illegal mining to desist or face the full rigours of the law, stressing that law enforcement must be firm and consistent.
“They should ensure that the people do not engage in galamsey, because if you do it and you are arrested, you know the consequences already,” he cautioned.
Justice Agyeman Badu II’s remarks come amid growing pressure on the government to declare a state of emergency in galamsey-affected areas, following the rapid destruction of water bodies, forests, and farmlands.
Click the link Puretvonline.com | WhatsApp Channel to join the WhatsApp channel
GOT A STORY?
Contact/WhatsApp: +233243201960 or manuelnkansah33@gmail.com