Calls are intensifying for Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama to take more decisive action against illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey. Prominent figures, including University of Ghana political scientist Dr. Joshua Jebuntie Zaato, are urging the President to leverage his high public approval rating, which stands at 75% according to a Global Info Analytics poll. Speaking on the 'Key Points' program on July 5, 2025, Dr. Zaato specifically advocated for the declaration of a state of emergency to combat the environmental devastation caused by galamsey. He also pressed for the immediate repeal of Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, a regulation currently governing mining activities within forest reserves. Dr. Zaato stressed the critical importance of investing significant political capital in the protection of Ghana's environment.

These appeals align with a broader movement among civil society organizations and advocates. Earlier, on June 19, Senyo Hosi, the Convenor of the One Ghana Movement, addressed a press conference hosted by the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey in Accra. Hosi expressed deep concern over what he perceived as widespread public apathy towards the escalating environmental crisis. He underscored that the fight against galamsey is a shared national responsibility that transcends political affiliations. Furthermore, Hosi issued a stark warning that political leaders might be tempted to evade the long-term consequences of this issue, urging all citizens to actively defend Ghana's precious natural resources for the benefit of future generations.

The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey, a leading voice in this advocacy, continues to demand more resolute government intervention. Kenneth Ashigbey, the former Convenor of the Coalition, has been particularly vocal in his criticism of the administration's perceived sluggish response to the galamsey menace. Ashigbey specifically highlighted L.I. 2462 as a key point of contention, stating unequivocally that the Coalition rejects any proposed amendments to the instrument if they are perceived to serve private interests over the collective national welfare. He maintained that the urgent revocation of L.I. 2462 is imperative. The combined weight of these demands reflects mounting pressure on the Mahama administration to address the profound environmental devastation wrought by illegal mining, especially in light of the President's current high public approval ratings.