Aide to former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Miracles Aboagye, has called on the Mahama administration to immediately declare a state of emergency to tackle illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, August 16, he criticised the government for what he described as excuses in dealing with the menace.

“I want them to declare the state of emergency now as you believed in it in opposition,” Mr Aboagye stated.

He argued that the administration cannot continue to downplay the urgency of the crisis when its effects on the nation’s rivers, forests, and communities are so severe.

According to him, the government’s reluctance to invoke such a drastic measure raises questions about its true commitment to ending the galamsey menace.

“It is absurd for them to be now giving excuses not to do that,” he remarked, insisting that a firm and bold step was long overdue.

Mr Aboagye maintained that political will was the missing link in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining and urged the Mahama government to back its rhetoric with concrete action.

He emphasised that only a decisive approach, free of political considerations, could restore confidence in the state’s ability to protect the environment.