Amid rising tensions in Tontokrom, Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has dismissed reports circulating on social media that he promised the withdrawal of military and police personnel from the Asanko Mining concession in the Amansie South District.
Dr. Amoakohene firmly denied allegations that he assured Tontokrom residents that the security presence at the Asanko Mines site would be withdrawn. His response follows the circulation of a viral video in which a local youth leader claimed the Minister made such a promise during a recent engagement.
Addressing the media, Dr. Amoakohene described the claims as false and misleading, cautioning the public against spreading unverified information that could further escalate tensions in the community.
“There is no directive to withdraw the military or police,” he stated. “We need them to maintain peace and protect lives and property while we work on resolving the issue.”
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The Minister called on the youth to remain calm and allow the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council to continue its stakeholder engagements aimed at addressing the situation.
He acknowledged the recent unrest in Tontokrom, which has included confrontations between residents and military personnel stationed at the mining concession. To de-escalate the situation, Dr. Amoakohene announced plans for a stakeholder meeting involving the Regional Coordinating Council and officials from Asanko Mines. The meeting is expected to gather input from all sides and work towards a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
He also noted that the Minerals Commission would be consulted to verify the legitimacy of Asanko Mines’ operations.
“If it is confirmed that the concession indeed belongs to Asanko Mines, there will be very little the government can do in terms of reclaiming the land for the youth,” he said.
Nonetheless, he emphasized that the government would encourage the company to offer alternative livelihood support or employment opportunities to affected youth in the area.
Dr. Amoakohene reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency and due process, emphasizing that dialogue, not confrontation, remains the best path forward.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Isaac Justice Bediako
