The Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta, Tweneboa Kodua Fokuo, has called for urgent justice and accountability following a violent incident at Asanko Mines that left an Assemblyman dead and two residents injured.
The clash in Mpatuam, Amansie West District, erupted after residents accused the mine’s security forces of killing a miner on Monday, September 8. Protests escalated on Tuesday, with community members blocking major roads, leading to the deployment of military officers who allegedly used excessive force.
Samuel Danquah, Assembly Member for Aboabo, was reportedly shot during the confrontation.
Mr. Fokuo described the incident as “heinous” and a breach of the rights and dignity of the community. He highlighted months of alleged intimidation and harassment by mine security, calling for transparent investigations into the deployment and conduct of armed personnel in private mining operations.
The MP has demanded an independent inquiry by the Ministry of the Interior, disciplinary action from the Ministry of Defence, a review of Asanko Mines’ community engagement practices, and investigations by CHRAJ into potential human rights violations.
He also called on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee to hold relevant ministers accountable.
“I hereby demand the following on behalf of the people of Manso Nkwanta: Immediate suspension of all military personnel operating at Asanko Mines pending the outcome of investigations. Full compensation and state recognition for the bereaved families, given the profound loss of an Assemblyman who served his people with dedication. Psychosocial support for the families and community members traumatized by the incident,” he stated.
He further warned that the tragedy should serve as a wake-up call to redefine the relationship between mining companies, security forces, and host communities, insisting that the lives lost “must not go in vain.”
