The Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana (CFAG) has launched a vehement critique against Ernest Frimpong, the Parliamentary Candidate for Amenfi East, and Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, the Western Regional Minister, for their purported incitement of violence against security personnel in the constituency.
A video that has gone viral on social media depicts Ernest Frimpong at a forum with individuals alleged to be illegal miners, advising them to resist military officers who attempt to evict them forcefully from mining sites. This controversial footage has sparked a nationwide debate on the roles of political figures in maintaining law and order, especially in regions plagued by illegal mining activities.
Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu, the President of CFAG, did not mince words in his condemnation. In a strongly worded statement, he described the utterances of Frimpong as “unfortunate” and “unacceptable.”
“We deem this conduct unfortunate and unacceptable, as it undermines the rule of law and puts the lives of security personnel at risk. If our laws function effectively, the PC and Minister must face arrest and prosecution for their actions.”
Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu, the President of CFAG
Bonsu highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the potential risks posed to those tasked with upholding the nation’s laws. “Inciting violence against those sworn to protect our nation is a serious offense, and we demand swift action from the appropriate authorities. We stand in solidarity with the security services and urge them to remain committed to their duties.”
The CFAG’s statement also drew attention to the broader issue of “galamsey,” a local term for illegal small-scale gold mining, which has been a significant environmental and social problem in Ghana.
The group urged the government to take decisive action against these illegal activities, which have wreaked havoc on farmlands and water bodies, thereby threatening the livelihoods of farmers and the sustainability of local ecosystems.
“We call on the government to address the issue of galamsey, which has devastated our farmlands and water bodies. We must protect our environment and ensure sustainable farming practices.”
“We expect a prompt response from the authorities and urge all Ghanaians to condemn this reckless behavior.”
Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu, the President of CFAG
PC Denies Incitement, Calls for Legal Mining Protection
Ernest Frimpong, the Parliamentary Candidate for Amenfi East
In the wake of the backlash, Ernest Frimpong issued a statement in an attempt to clarify his remarks. He contended that his comments had been taken out of context from a two-hour engagement with artisanal small-scale miners. According to Frimpong, he had urged the miners to comply with Ghana’s laws governing small-scale mining and assured them of protection under these laws when they engage in responsible and legal mining practices.
Frimpong expressed concern over the challenges faced by miners who operate legally but are frequently targeted by unauthorized individuals posing as security personnel. He highlighted incidents where such miners are attacked, extorted, and have their equipment destroyed, which, he claimed, fosters resentment against the government. He argued that his advice to the miners was intended to encourage them to protect themselves against these unlawful actions, rather than incite violence against legitimate security forces.
“I explained to the small-scale miners to adhere to the laws governing small-scale mining in Ghana. I assured the miners of their protection under these laws when engaging in responsible practices.”
“The miners engaging in legal mining often get attacked and extorted, and their machines are destroyed, causing disaffection with the government. Therefore, they need to guard themselves against unauthorized security personnel.”
Ernest Frimpong, the Parliamentary Candidate for Amenfi East
Frimpong firmly denied the allegations based on the viral video, calling them “inaccurately represented” and “misrepresented.” He urged the public to disregard these allegations, maintaining that his words had been taken out of context and distorted.
The incident has intensified the ongoing discourse on the challenges faced by the mining sector in Ghana, particularly the persistent issue of illegal mining and its impact on local communities and the environment. As calls for accountability and legal action mount, the responses from both the government and the implicated political figures will be closely watched by all stakeholders involved.
