Declaring state of emergency over illegal mining premature – Mustapha Gbande

A Deputy Director of Operations at the Presidency and Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has warned against impulsive calls to declare a state of emergency in response to illegal mining, insisting that the government’s ongoing measures are both visible and effective.

Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, Mr Gbande emphasised that declaring a state of emergency is not a decision to be taken lightly or without solid justification.

He urged the public to support the government’s efforts rather than rushing to make drastic demands.

“We shouldn’t be so quick to call for a state of emergency. This is not something you simply impose. Look at the situation today, forest reserves have effectively become no-go areas. We have witnessed calculated, precise military operations targeting these hotspots. The evidence is clear: many of these forest reserves are being reclaimed,” he explained.

Highlighting improvements in institutional efficiency, Mr Gbande said, “We are making sure that the responsible institutions are not only functioning but operating more effectively than ever before. Would you say we are doing nothing? Should we suddenly declare a state of emergency now, when the cedi is stabilising and the economy is showing signs of revival largely thanks to gold regulations?”

He also praised the commitment of key government officials, noting, “As far as I’m concerned, I have already spoken about the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources’ dedication and contribution. For the first time, I have also highlighted the unprecedented resolve of the Minister for the Interior, under whose watch offenders are being extradited and arrested.”

Mr Gbande further reminded Ghanaians that “The government has made it absolutely clear that anyone involved in illegal mining will face the full force of the law. It is therefore incumbent upon all of us to expose those, both within and outside government, who have engaged in or supported illegal mining.”

He emphasised the need for careful management, stating, “This is a matter we must handle with tact,” rather than rushing into decisions.