President Mahama Warns: Firm Action Against Attacks on Security Personnel and Public Officials

President John Dramani Mahama has issued a firm warning to communities that attack public officials and security personnel performing their lawful duties, especially during operations to curb illegal mining activities.

Speaking at the 29th Ghana Journalist Association Award ceremony held at Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Saturday 8th November, 2025, themed on protecting Ghana’s future from the devastating effects of illegal mining (galamsey), President Mahama said such attacks will no longer be tolerated.

“I wish to notify communities that attack public officials and security personnel performing their lawful duties that firm action will be taken against them,” the President declared.

He described illegal mining as a national crisis that threatens the environment, water bodies, and the livelihoods of future generations. According to him, the fight against galamsey is not one of convenience but a moral and existential obligation.

“The theme of tonight’s event reminds us that protecting Ghana’s future requires a united stand against illegal mining. This is not a matter of convenience—it is essential for our very survival as a nation,” he stated.

President Mahama expressed concern that illegal mining has become deeply rooted in some communities to the extent that residents openly confront security teams sent to enforce the law.

“Illegal mining has so deeply ingrained itself in the fabric of our society that, despite the obvious damage it causes, entire communities mobilize and confront security personnel when they arrive to combat illegal mining operations,” he lamented.

He revealed that on Thursday, a group of journalists and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials were attacked by a mob during an anti-galamsey operation, leaving some reporters injured.

“Only yesterday, I received news of an accident in which some journalists were injured as they retreated from a community mob attack on EPA officials and security officers,” President Mahama said.

He added that he had directed the Chief of Staff Mr. Julius Debrah to contact the injured journalists and ensure that their medical expenses are covered.

The President acknowledged the frustration of many young people who turn to illegal mining due to lack of jobs but stressed that destroying the environment cannot be a solution.

“I can understand that our young people have been deprived of opportunity over the years, but destroying the environment is like cutting off your nose to spite your face,” he cautioned.

He assured Ghanaians that government is working to create sustainable jobs through several new initiatives including the 24-Hour Economy Initiative, the Feed Ghana Program, the Poultry Revitalization Program, and the National Apprenticeship Program.

“The government is working hard to stabilize and grow the economy to create a conducive environment for job creation and employment,” he explained.

President Mahama also announced plans to expand environmental programs like the Tree for Life Reforestation Program and the Blue Water Guards Initiative, which he said will restore degraded lands and protect river bodies while creating thousands of jobs for young people in affected areas.

“I have asked the Minister of Finance to increase the budget allocation so we can recruit more youth into forest replanting and Blue River Guards to safeguard our water bodies,” he revealed. “These youth will receive a monthly stipend of 1,500 Ghana cedis.”

He concluded by commending journalists who continue to expose illegal mining activities despite facing personal risks.

“I wish to commend journalists like Erastus Asare Donkor and others who persist in exposing environmental crime at great personal risk. Your bravery is noted. It is patriotic, and your efforts strengthen our moral reserve to continue the fight,” the President said.