Citizen rebuts Minority claims on alleged 'State Capture' in mining sector

Ibrahim Mahama is the owner of Engineers and Planners. A Ghanaian citizen issued a detailed rejoinder challenging claims by the Member of Parliament for Mampong, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, over alleged state capture in Ghana's mineral sector involving businessman Ibrahim Mahama. The writer described the allegations as "baseless" and lacking factual grounding.

The rejoinder rejected claims that Mahama exerts undue influence over Ghana's mining sector. The writer dismissed assertions that the Minerals Commission is under external control, noting that its leadership structure has remained consistent across political transitions. Regarding the Damang mine, the statement explained that the leaseholder, Abosso Goldfields Limited, had earlier indicated its intention to cease operations rather than renew its lease. Engineers and Planners had initiated steps as far back as 2023 to take over operations, including securing a "no objection" from the then Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor. The response argued that the process followed due legal and regulatory procedures and was not influenced by political considerations. The writer also rejected claims surrounding the acquisition of the Black Volta gold project, stating that the transaction began in 2022 and was concluded in 2023-prior to the current administration. Financing arrangements involving the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development were secured independently.

The statement concluded by urging political actors to prioritise fact-based discussions and avoid what it described as partisan attacks that could undermine national unity and investor confidence.