Carl Maadi opposes calls for state of emergency on illegal mining
His remarks follow recent comments by the NDC’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, on the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Carl Maadi, a Member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Team in the Navrongo Central Constituency, has opposed calls for the government to declare a state of emergency on illegal mining activities in Ghana.
His remarks follow recent comments by the NDC’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, on the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Asiedu Nketiah argued that it would be dangerous for the government to declare a state of emergency in galamsey-affected areas, suggesting that such a move could suspend constitutional rights.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Friday August 29, Maadi said that although the Chairman’s comments do not represent the official stance of the NDC, he personally agrees with Nketiah that declaring a state of emergency could lead to infringements on citizens’ rights.
“The stand of our chairman is not the stand of the party, but personally, I would actually go by what the chairman said.” Maadi stated.
He further explained that it would be more reasonable to consider a limited state of emergency in specific mining areas rather than a blanket declaration across the country.
Maadi warned that declaring a state of emergency on illegal mining could result in widespread lawlessness and potential loss of lives.
He urged the government to adopt more measured and lawful approaches in tackling galamsey instead of resorting to drastic measures.
“If a state of emergency is declared, we cannot imagine the kind of lives that would be lost in that particular state of emergency. The constitution, to some extent, is going to be suspended in those areas.”
Mike 105.3FM | Navrongo | Alexander Bombande
