Policy analyst and natural resource governance advocate, Dr Steve Manteaw, has advised caution to those calling for a state of emergency, stressing the potential dangers it could pose to Ghana’s democracy and rule of law.
“I agree with Tsatsu Tsikata, that those calling for a state of emergency should be careful what they wish for,” Dr. Manteaw warned.
According to him, suspending the rule of law would open the door for people to exploit the situation for personal or political gain.
“We can’t go on that dangerous route where the rule of law is suspended, and people are likely to take advantage to settle personal scores, especially in a politically polarised environment,” he said.
Drawing comparisons, Dr. Manteaw questioned the logic behind such calls by highlighting the challenges on Ghana’s roads.
“I have always questioned that call on account of the fact that we have carnage on our roads, with many driving without licenses, but we have not declared a state of emergency on our roads, and we have not banned all drivers,” he argued.
He stressed that addressing problems requires specific and targeted solutions rather than broad declarations.
“It is my considered view that specific problems require targeted solutions and not blanket declarations as is being demanded by some,” he noted.
Turning his attention to illegal mining, Dr. Manteaw emphasised that the real challenge lies in official complicity and vested interests.
“The solution rests more with official complicity rather than arresting the boys in the pit. Let’s prosecute one politically exposed person and see whether the politicians behind the galamsey won’t fall in line,” he stated.
