Tontokrom Community Appeals To Otumfuo To Intervene In Asanko Mines Dispute

The Chiefs and youth of Tontokrom Community in the Amansie South District of Ashanti Region have made a passionate appeal to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, to intervene in the ongoing dispute between the community and Asanko Mines.

The community accuses the mining company of taking their land without proper authorization, intimidating and harassing the youth, and even allegedly killing some residents who venture into the company’s concession areas.

Nana Adu-Gyamfi Kumanin, speaking at a press conference in Tontokrom, expressed deep concern over the situation, citing the deployment of over 400 military personnel to provide security for the company’s operations.

He emphasized that the community wants to be allowed to mine their own land, rather than having foreigners take over and destroy their communities and livelihoods with license most of them can not provide.

The community is urging the government to establish a community mining scheme, which would provide employment opportunities for the youth and help reduce criminal activities in the area.

They also want the government to consider granting licenses to individual Ghanaians, particularly residents with technical expertise in mining responsibly.

Then Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker, in the previous government assured the community that the then government was committed to resolving the dispute.

He emphasized the need for a harmonious relationship between the company and the community, stating that unity is essential for mutual success.

The conflict between Asanko Mines and the Tontokrom community has been ongoing, with reports of violence and fatalities.

In March 2024, a clash between residents and the company’s private security personnel resulted in the deaths of three individuals.

The community has been demanding that the company cease its operations and allow them to mine their own land responsibly.

The community is pleading with Otumfuo to intervene and stop Asanko Mines from taking their land for ransom through unlawful, intimidation and harassment.

They want the Asantehene to use his influence to ensure that the company respects their rights and allows them to benefit from their own resources.

Story by Bismark Mensah@A/R.