Professor of Finance and Economics at the University of Ghana, Professor Godfred A. Bokpin, has criticised President John Mahama for failing to stop illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, within his first six months in office.

According to him, the President could have taken decisive actions against the menace, just as he has demonstrated in other sectors of the economy, but failed to do so, allowing the menace to fester and deepen its impact on the country.

"Six months is too short, but you know what? Six months has also been long enough for the president to demonstrate. Do we need like three years to declare a state of emergency? How many years do we need to repeal the L.I, which they all agreed in opposition that they ought to go with," he said.

Prof. Bokpin was speaking on JoyNews’s Newsfile on Saturday, 21 June.

Illegal mining continues to threaten Ghana’s environment, especially in forest reserves and water bodies, while eroding the country’s reputation as a responsible gold exporter.

Prof. Bokpin warned that if the situation is not urgently addressed, Ghana may face global backlash, including a possible boycott of its gold on ethical grounds.

He urged the government to demonstrate greater resolve in eradicating galamsey and restoring public confidence in the country’s environmental governance.