Residents of Bogoso have staged a protest and presented a petition to government, demanding a review of a mining lease and the appointment of a new investor to take over operations in the area.
Spokesperson for the Catchment Area Community Alliance, Mohammed Awal, said the demonstration was driven by concerns that the current company has failed to meet agreed investment conditions.
Speaking on Ekosii Sen on Asempa FM, he explained that under the administration of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, a mining lease in Prestea was revoked after the company involved encountered financial difficulties, paving the way for new bids.
He noted that a new lease was subsequently granted in December 2024 with strict conditions, including an initial investment of $5 million, annual capital injections of $150 million, and an additional $50 million to settle outstanding debts.
According to him, the company has failed to meet these obligations—grounds he believes should trigger a revocation of the lease by the Minerals Commission and open the door for a more capable investor.
Mr. Awal is therefore calling on the President to intervene and ensure that a competent investor is brought in to revive the mines and create jobs for the local community.
He further urged authorities to treat the matter strictly on economic grounds, cautioning against any attempt to politicise the issue.
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