The Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has criticised the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government for the violent clash between illegal miners and military personnel at Obuasi.
According to the Nsawam Adoagyiri lawmaker, the NDC government must bear the blame for the unfortunate incident, which has reportedly resulted in the deaths of seven individuals and left several others injured.
He faulted the ruling government, suggesting that it may have indirectly contributed to the tragic incident that resulted in lives being lost.
He specifically pointed to the party’s comments and remarks made during the 2024 general elections, implying that these may have incited and motivated the illegal miners to engage in such actions.
In response to the presidency’s statement directing investigations into the incident, the New Patriotic Party lawmaker urged the NDC to rather reflect on their actions.
“Rather bow your heads in shame. Your irresponsible election comments have brought us this lowest ebb! God should save this country, I am sick!” he wrote on X on January 19, 2025.
Annoh-Dompreh’s comments come in response to President John Dramani Mahama’s directive ordering investigations into the shooting incident.
The president has asked that investigations be conducted into the matter to bring the culprits to book.
In a letter signed by the president’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, he said, “The government wishes to express deep regret over the tragic loss of up to eight (8) lives, said to be illegal miners, following a violent clash at a mining site in Obuasi.
“In response to the unfortunate incident, President John Dramani Mahama has ordered an immediate investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the clashes and ensure that any individuals found to have acted unlawfully are brought to justice.”
However, the government has asked the management of Anglo-Gold Ashanti to bear the medical expenses of the injured individuals fully and facilitate the burial arrangements of those who have lost their lives.
“The security agencies have also been tasked to take prompt action to restore peace in the area and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences,” he noted.
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