The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, says investigations are actively underway into allegations exposed by the JoyNews Hotline Documentary, which revealed that some district assemblies in mining communities are allegedly collecting fees from operators of banned mining equipment, a practice described as a “galamsey tax” system.
Speaking on JoyNews’ National Dialogue on Thursday, February 12, during a discussion on whether Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) have become the weakest link in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, Dr Amoakohene said a formal process has already been triggered to establish the facts.
“As Regional Minister, the issues have come to my attention. Yesterday, together with the Local Government Minister, we were on a committee to listen to all sides and delve into the matter so we can come out with the facts and clear conclusions,” he stated.
He confirmed that a committee has been set up by the Presidency to investigate the allegations, stressing that the process will be thorough and evidence-based.
“Yes, investigations are underway, and once the reports, findings and recommendations are ready, they will be communicated. Clearly, the principles of natural justice must apply,” he said.
“The mere fact that allegations are made against someone does not mean they should be sacked or interdicted. There must be evidence and a proper case established.”
Dr Amoakohene assured the public that any official found culpable would face the full consequences of the law.
“Once wrongdoing is established against any official, I am sure it will not require any calls for action to be taken. So for now, we must have patience and support the President and the committee to thoroughly assess the situation and come out with the facts.”
Responding to comments that the Minister for Local Government had given assurances that implicated officials would be interdicted pending investigations, the Regional Minister said he was not aware of such directives, insisting that due process must be followed.
“I am not privy to those assurances, but the law of natural justice must guide us. When petitions are filed against Chief Justices or Electoral Commissioners, it does not mean they are immediately interdicted. The committee must first come out with findings before any action is taken.”
He added that Ghana’s legal system is clear on the presumption of innocence.
“I am not aware of any law that states that once a petition is filed, a person must automatically be interdicted. The law is clear: a suspect is innocent until proven guilty.
“If we don’t stick to these laws, we risk victimising people unreasonably. So let the committee do its work. Once the results are out, the right actions must be taken.”
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