The Ashanti Regional Minister-designate has assured the public that work and school activities in the Obuasi community can resume following engagements with key stakeholders regarding the recent AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) mine incident.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Monday, January 20, 2025, Frank Amoakohene stated that the affected site is not an active mining area, allowing operations in other sections to continue without disruption.
“AngloGold Ashanti has a northern camp and a southern area where active mining processes take place. The incident occurred within the northern side, which is not an active site for mining activities.
“So as far as the Attorney General is concerned, they can commence work without affecting or tampering with the evidence,” he stated.
Mr. Amoakohene highlighted that the decision to allow work and school activities to resume was made after thorough consultations with the affected communities and other stakeholders.
“Once we are very certain that the stakeholders—especially the communities—are at peace and have confidence in the process initiated by the President, we believe work can resume. Schools can reopen because they can’t remain closed indefinitely while investigations are ongoing,” he noted.
He further expressed optimism that continuous engagement with stakeholders, including AngloGold Ashanti, would facilitate a smooth return to normalcy.
“After our engagement with them, we realized that they were a bit at peace, and with constant dialogue, we should be able to get the company back at work and everyone back to their respective duties, pending the final determination of the matter.”
Addressing concerns about the well-being of security personnel involved in the incident, Mr. Amoakohene disclosed that he personally engaged with one of the injured military operatives and conveyed the President’s well wishes.
“We had access to him and sent the compliments of the President. Our men in uniform, who are on duty for the country, are a major concern to the President. The President has made adequate provisions to cover his medical expenses and ensure his full recovery,” he affirmed.
Mr. Amoakohene reassured the public that the government is committed to an inclusive and transparent process.
“It is our duty to ensure that all parties, including those affected directly and indirectly, feel reassured and confident in the measures being put in place. We are committed to seeing this process through to its logical conclusion,” he added.
The Minister-designate concluded by urging all parties to remain calm and cooperative as investigations continue, stating that normalcy should return to the community while the authorities handle the situation diligently.
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