The Constituency Executives, Ward Coordinators, Branch Executives and members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Atiwa East have strongly condemned what they describe as “calculated and defamatory attacks” against the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Ernest Owusu Ntim, as part of grand scheme to undermine his firm stance in the fight against illegal mining.
At a press conference held in the constituency on Wednesday, addressed by Begyina Isaac and Kyei Baffour Youth, Constituency Secretary and Organizer respectively accused some influential individuals of emboldening one Daniel Ansah, popularly known as Abeiku a notorious illegal miner to peddle falsehoods intended to tarnish the reputation of the DCE so he is removed from office for illegal mining to fester to their benefits.
The party executives linked the alleged smear campaign against the DCE to the ongoing clampdown on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, and unlawful land takeovers in the district.
According to the executives ,more than 200 farmers in Asamang Tamfoe alone have reportedly lost about 70 hectares of farmland to illegal mining activities over the years.
The executives further alleged that even land reserved by traditional authorities for use as a cemetery in Asamang Tamfoe had been forcefully taken over by illegal operators which he is resisting
They claimed that since assuming office, the DCE has taken uncomprising steps to halt illegal mining activities and reclaim farmlands in communities such as Asamang Tamfoe, Osino, and Ankaase.
‘These and many other actions clearly expose the motive behind Abeiku’s relentless and vocal attacks on our DCE. His desperation stems from the fact that his illegal operations have been curtailed under the leadership of Hon. Ernest Owusu Ntim”.
They averred that, several hectres of once abandoned mining pits have been reclaimed through fearless decision of that DCE that “No reclamation No Mining”
The NDC executives described these developments as evidence that the DCE’s firm stance against illegal mining has unsettled individuals who allegedly benefited from such activities.
The constituency leadership also cautioned individuals within and outside the party against actions that could undermine unity and stability in Atiwa East.
READ: Eastern Region: 16-year-old girl who went missing on Valentine’s Day found dead
They reaffirmed the support of the party to the DCE’s efforts to restore the environment,protect from further damage and preseeve the ecosystem.
They further called on Daniel Ansah, alias Abeiku, to immediately cease what they termed a defamatory campaign against the DCE, stressing that they would not sit by and allow his reputation to be damaged by what they described as baseless allegations.
The executives expressed appreciation to John Dramani Mahama for appointing Hon. Ernest Owusu Ntim as DCE, describing him as one of the best-performing district chief executives in the country, particularly in the areas of land reclamation and the fight against irresponsible mining.
“Hon. Ernest Owusu Ntim, a gentleman who prior to his appointment as DCE for the Atiwa East District, was a respected educationist and entrepreneur who had established and managed his numerous businesses in Accra and its environs. His commitment to leadership and service began early in life when he was elected the Constituency Chairman for the NDC at the young age of 27”.
The added “For the past twelve (12) holy years, he has diligently served in that capacity, demonstrating dedication, loyalty, tenacity visionary leadership and an unblemished commitment to the development of our constituency.
It is therefore deeply concerning and disgusting that Mr. Daniel Ansah, widely known as Abeiku, continues to peddle falsehoods and malicious propaganda aimed at tarnishing the hard-earned reputation of our DCE”.
The Party executives concluded by calling on the media and the public to disregard unsubstantiated allegations circulating on social media and reaffirmed their unwavering support for the DCE’s leadership.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
