Amansie West chiefs, residents demand military withdrawal from the area

Correspondence from Ashanti Region

Traditional leaders and residents of Mpatuam and surrounding communities in the Amansie West District are urging the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, to immediately remove military personnel stationed at the Asanko Gold Mining Company, citing intimidation and threats to lives. They are requesting that the soldiers be replaced with police officers.

The appeal follows a violent clash between residents and soldiers guarding the mining concession, a tragic incident that resulted in the deaths of two community members. This incident has worsened strained relations between the mining company and locals, who accuse the military of intimidation and excessive force.

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During a high-level meeting with the Ashanti Regional Minister and the Regional Security Council, the chiefs argued that the presence of armed soldiers has escalated tensions instead of ensuring peace. They emphasised that police officers, who have stronger ties to the community, would be better equipped to maintain order without further exacerbating hostilities.

"Why these intimidations and threats to our people? What crimes have our people committed to be treated on our own lands as though they are criminals? The communities have had a good rapport with these Asanko Mining workers until the introduction of these military men, who came in with a different agenda. Now, look, we've lost two precious lives, including an assembly member. Who knows what's next? By the time we would realise, the entire community members have been killed by these soldiers, if care is not taken," Nana Owusu Ababio-III, Chief of Akataniase, lamented.

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He further attributed the soldiers' shoot-to-kill approach to the 'innocent' residents to a lack of their proper knowledge or understanding when it comes to illegal mining and proper mining.

Chiefs of Tetrem and Mpatuam, who were all present, shared similar sentiments and urged the government to expedite action in curbing these incessant attacks on residents in mining communities.

They also lamented the failure of these mining companies to fulfil their promises of employment slots, construction of roads and other projects despite the initial agreements.

Adding to the appeal, some Assembly Members from Amansie West are demanding immediate intervention from the Minister for the release of their colleague, Hon. Patrick Asare, Assembly Member for the Bonteso Electoral Area. Asare was recently remanded into police custody by the Bekwai Circuit Court following a separate confrontation between residents and law enforcement officers regarding mining operations.

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In response, Dr Frank Amoakohene acknowledged the grievances of the chiefs, Assembly Members, and residents. He assured them that their concerns would be forwarded to the President for urgent consideration.

He stated that the government remains committed to implementing a responsible and sustainable mining framework that will address disputes, promote peaceful coexistence, and foster equitable development in the Amansie West District.

He further appealed to the community to remain calm and avoid violence while the government works to resolve the matter.

Regarding the appeal for the release of the Bonteso assembly member from custody, the honourable minister assured that he was going to work on it to ensure his release as soon as possible.

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