The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has issued a stern call for President Nana Akufo-Addo to declare a state of emergency to address the devastating impact of illegal mining on the country’s water bodies.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, September 11, Kenneth Koomson, the Deputy General Secretary of the GFL, highlighted the dire situation facing Ghana, stating that urgent action is necessary to prevent further environmental catastrophe.
He pointed to alarming data that paints a grim picture of the nation’s natural resources.
“Sixty per cent of our water bodies are already decimated, and 34 forest reserves are gone,” he stated.
He stated that the current water turbidity levels far exceed acceptable limits, reaching 14,000 NTU – a dangerously high figure compared to the recommended range of 0 to 500 NTU.
“We have crossed the line; we are in a state of emergency,” Koomson declared, dismissing any notion of further negotiations or dialogue.
During a press conference earlier, the Federation, in collaboration with other civil society organisations and unions, gave the government an 18-day ultimatum to address the issue or face a withdrawal of services.
Mr Koomson underscored the urgency of the matter, arguing that the situation meets the criteria for invoking Article 31 of the Ghanaian Constitution, which allows the President, with the advice of the Council of State, to declare a state of emergency when citizens’ essential rights to life are threatened.
“This is not the time for coffee-table discussions,” Mr Koomson said, urging the President to take immediate action.
“Our water bodies are decimated, our fertile lands have been left barren by a few greedy individuals, and air pollution is rampant. Our lives are under threat, and it is time for decisive action.”
Mr Koomson reiterated that the government must act swiftly to prevent further destruction, stressing that the call for a state of emergency is not a matter open for negotiation.
“The honest, fair, and sensible thing to do now is for His Excellency, the President, to declare a state of emergency so that we can address these issues and protect Ghanaians,” he concluded.
The Ghana Federation of Labour and its allies remain firm in their demand, underscoring that any delay in action could have severe and irreversible consequences for the nation’s water bodies, forests, and overall public health.