Government Afraid Of Prosecuting Akonta Mines?

The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has expressed strong disappointment in the government’s failure to bring operators of Akonta Mining Ltd, allegedly linked to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako (popularly known as Chairman Wontumi), to justice.

In a strongly-worded statement, the coalition condemned what it described as the state’s “lackadaisical” posture toward holding the company accountable for its alleged illegal mining activities, especially in ecologically sensitive areas, such as the Tano Nmiri Forest Reserve.

“The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey is highly disappointed and shocked by the government’s copious failure to enforce Ghana’s laws against the criminal conduct of Akonta Mining Ltd,” the statement said.

The group urged the government to act swiftly and decisively, stressing that the fight against galamsey must be “fair, fearless and uncompromising.”

It emphasised that failure to prosecute politically connected individuals undermines the credibility of the government’s commitment to environmental protection.

The coalition also reminded President John Mahama and Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin of petitions submitted to them in the past, calling for investigations into Members of Parliament suspected of engaging in galamsey.

Referencing the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources’ own investigative documentary that exposed Akonta Mining’s alleged illegal activities, the coalition said it initially believed that justice would follow. However, it now views those assurances as hollow.

“We were assured of swift action against the directors of Akonta Mining and culpable government officials. But a month has passed and yet no arrests have been made, nor has any prosecution commenced. This sets a dangerous precedent, painting a picture of impunity and political accommodation,” the statement noted.

While the group commended the government for freezing Akonta Mining’s accounts – a move they said confirms the state’s acknowledgment of wrongdoing – they insisted that this alone is not enough.

“We strongly urge the government to arrest and prosecute the Managing Director/CEO, all Directors of Akonta Mining Ltd., and any culpable government officials without further delay, as a clear testament of its commitment to fighting galamsey.”

The coalition concluded by invoking Act 995, urging the government to send an unequivocal message that no one is above the law – regardless of political connections or social standing.

The post Government Afraid Of Prosecuting Akonta Mines? appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.

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