Tontokrom Boils Again: Residents Say ‘No’ to Asanko Gold’s Relocation Proposal, Demand State Protection
The mining community of Tontokrom in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region is once again on edge, as residents rise in fierce opposition to what they describe as a fresh and unlawful attempt by Asanko Gold Mining Company to relocate them from their ancestral lands.
A recent meeting held at the District Assembly reportedly revealed plans by the company to move the entire Tontokrom township to make way for expanded mining operations. The proposal, which residents say was discussed without their consent or prior notice, has triggered outrage, fear, and defiance across the town — renewing long-standing tensions between the community and the mining giant.
Speaking at a charged press conference over the weekend, the people of Tontokrom, led by traditional leaders, youth, and concerned residents, declared that they would not accept any form of forced relocation, nor would they tolerate further military intimidation from Asanko Gold and its affiliates.
“We will never move an inch from our land,” declared Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanini, the Mmamahene of Tontokrom. “Our forefathers lived and died here. This land is our identity. Asanko has no legal claim to it, and we have not signed any agreement with them. We will not allow the use of military force to uproot us from our home.”
The traditional leader accused Asanko Gold of using security forces over the years to harass, brutalize, and kill residents in a campaign of intimidation aimed at driving the community off the land. He called on the government and state institutions to intervene urgently before the situation degenerates into chaos.
Residents shared harrowing accounts of past confrontations with the military, which they allege was deployed to serve the interests of the mining company.
Kwadwo Addo, a youth leader, said the community is ready to resist any future invasions.
“Anytime the military comes to this town, it’s to brutalize us. They beat us, shoot at us, and destroy our peace. Last year, we buried our own because of this madness. This time, if they come again, they’ll meet strong resistance,” he warned.
Sofo Maame, a local resident, recalled an especially violent episode.
“They stormed the town with guns. People were shot. Mothers were crying. All this just to scare us away. But this time, we are prepared. We will not sit idle while they destroy our lives,” she stated emotionally.
The residents are appealing directly to the President of Ghana, former President John Dramani Mahama, the Ashanti Regional Minister, and the Ministers for Defense and Interior to step in and prevent what they describe as an impending humanitarian and security crisis.
They also called on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to intervene and uphold the rights of the people of Tontokrom, reminding him of his sacred responsibility to protect lands under the Golden Stool.
The community maintains that while they are not opposed to mining and development, it must be done transparently and with the full involvement and consent of the local people.
“We are not enemies of development,” said Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanini. “But we will never be silent victims of injustice and corporate greed. If the state cannot protect us, we will protect ourselves.”
As the tension deepens, the people of Tontokrom say they will remain vigilant and united. For them, the land is more than a place to live — it is sacred, inherited, and non-negotiable.
Contact Information:
- Nana Addo – 0247733818
- Emmanuel Appiah – 0537784816
- Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanini – 0505208869
