Community mining standoff in Ahafo-Ano North, NDC executives seek urgent government action

NDC executives are seeking urgent government action in the Ahafo-Ano North District of the Ashanti Region. Tension is escalating due to an alleged forceful takeover of a community mining site at Mfante, which serves as a major source of livelihood for over 5,000 people. The site has reportedly been seized by individuals claiming to be operatives of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) without proper explanation or identification.

Residents accused executive members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of collaborating with NAIMOS officials in taking over the mining site. Akakpo Francis Elikplim, Ahafo-Ano North NDC Communications Officer, denied any involvement at a press conference and called for swift government intervention. Mr. Akakpo said, "The mining concession has been in the possession of community members for a very long time. It is therefore worrying that some individuals or groups are attempting to take it over under the NDC administration." He appealed to President John Mahama and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to step in and resolve the situation, which has affected several communities, including Mfante, Subriso, Asikam, Numasua, and Fawobotoso.

Mr. Akakpo warned that if authorities fail to act, the constituency executive will collaborate with residents to stage demonstrations against the government. Displaced workers expressed deep concern about their future and made a passionate appeal to the government for timely and fair intervention.