The Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has met with chiefs, opinion leaders, and residents of Mpatuam and its surrounding communities in the Amansie West District following renewed tensions over the presence of military personnel at the Asanko Gold Mining Company.
The meeting was convened after a violent clash between residents and soldiers guarding the mining concession led to the tragic deaths of two community members. The incident has heightened long-standing tensions between the mining company and locals, many of whom accuse the military of harassment, intimidation, and excessive use of force.
During the discussions, the chiefs made a strong case for the immediate withdrawal of soldiers from the concession, stressing that their presence has escalated hostilities rather than maintaining peace. According to the traditional leaders, police officers with stronger community ties would be better suited to maintain security and order in a manner that does not inflame tensions.
The chiefs further argued that the continued deployment of the military risks worsening mistrust between the mining company and host communities, undermining efforts to resolve disputes peacefully. They appealed to the government to consider the human and social dimensions of security arrangements in the district, insisting that the well-being of residents must remain a priority.
In his response, Hon. Dr. Frank Amoakohene acknowledged the grievances of the chiefs and residents and assured them that their concerns would be forwarded to the President for urgent consideration. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable mining that balances economic benefits with community security and social harmony.
The Minister urged the community to exercise restraint while the government deliberates on the matter, emphasizing that violence and confrontation only risk further loss of lives and property. He encouraged stakeholders to work together in fostering dialogue and trust, pledging that government will ensure that fair and lasting solutions are implemented in the Amansie West District.
The situation has once again brought to the fore the delicate balance between national security, corporate mining interests, and community rights. Residents remain hopeful that government’s intervention will ease tensions and pave the way for a more peaceful coexistence in the mining communities of Amansie West.
