Ashanti Democrats petition CID over galamsey claims against three Ministers

A political group, the Ashanti Democrats, has petitioned the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to probe allegations suggesting that three regional ministers are involved in illegal mining (galamsey) activities in their respective regions.

The petition follows claims made during a live radio interview by the Head of Mobilisation at Democracy Hub, Wendell Nana Yaw Yeboah, who accused the Regional Ministers of Ashanti, Western, and Eastern Regions of engaging in illegal mining.

Although he has reportedly retracted the allegations and issued an apology on his social media platforms, the group insists that an investigation is still necessary to establish the facts.

According to the Ashanti Democrats, a thorough and independent inquiry will help clear the names of the public office holders involved and prevent further speculation that could damage their reputations.

At a press conference in Kumasi, the President of the group, Jerry James Sukah, stressed that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) holds its ministers in high regard and will protect them from unfounded accusations.

He described the allegations as “daring and extremely serious,” emphasising the need to address the reputational harm they pose, particularly to the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene.

Mr. Sukah said Dr. Amoakohene, a respected medical doctor, is fully aware of the severe health impacts of illegal mining and would not be involved in such activities. He praised the minister’s humility, dedication, and service to the region, attributes he said have earned him broad respect across traditional, political, and civic leadership.

“Such a great man—a man whose name carries credibility, compassion, and commitment—cannot and must not have his reputation soiled by baseless allegations,” he stated. “We will not sit idle. We will not allow shadows of doubt to be cast on a leader who has worked tirelessly for the people.”

Issuing a stern warning, Mr. Sukah cautioned individuals or groups against attempting to “fabricate accusations, spread malicious misinformation, or purposefully tarnish” the minister’s name, emphasising that the youth of the Ashanti Region would not tolerate such actions and would hold perpetrators accountable.

The group added that it would await the outcome of the CID’s investigations.