The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atiwa East, Owusu Ntim, has dismissed claims that he owns a mining concession or is involved in illegal mining activities.
In an interview with Akua Boakyewaa Yiadom on Adom FM’s Burning Issues, Mr. Ntim described the allegations as false and baseless.
He explained that his focus remains on supporting President John Dramani Mahama’s efforts to sanitise the mining sector and combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
“Since assuming office, I have taken concrete steps to fight galamsey in the Atwima East District,” the DCE stated. “We have formed a District Taskforce made up of immigration officers, police, and community members to intensify the fight against illegal mining.”
Mr. Ntim added that all assembly members in the district have been directed to document miners and their operational sites to help authorities monitor their activities more effectively.
“In addition to that, I have instructed that every miner must reclaim all degraded lands after their operations,” he said.
The DCE insisted that the rumors linking him to mining operations are politically motivated propaganda.
“Successive governments have tried to fight galamsey but have not achieved full success. However, we as Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) are determined to support President Mahama in making significant progress in the mining sector,” he emphasized.
Mr. Ntim also proposed that government should introduce performance contracts for all MMDCEs in mining-prone areas.
“This will ensure accountability and allow for sanctions against those who fail to meet the targets,” he added.
Source: Kwame Kulenu
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