Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV
The attempt by the King of Akyem Kotoku State, His Majesty Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, to combat illegal mining with its attending environmental challenges through the Kotoku Task Force has brought the task force in the line of attack by some politicians largely involved in land destructive operations.
According to Akyem Kotoku State actors, some government officials in the Eastern Region have resolved to dissolve the Kotoku Task Force.
Kotoku Task Force made headlines on October 12-13 2024 after it patrolled forests in the Birim North District, seized mining equipment and arrested several Chinese and Ghanaians destroying lands and rivers.
Whilst inhabitants of the area showered praises on the task force for its operation, it also threatened politicians who saw Kotoku Task Force’s actions as erosion of their fortunes, hence, the decision to dissolve it entirely.
For seven years, some politicians have targeted the mineral-rich Akyem Kotoku State for their mining operations, with some having concessions in Pankese and Amenam.
The Akyem Kotoku State actors have spoken against the activities in Ntronang, howbeit it continues to destroy the environment unabated.
Kotoku Task Force was established by the Akyem Kotoku State under the leadership of Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV to halt environmental degradation activities.
This commendable initiative seems to have crossed the paths of some government officials who are benefiting from the illegal practice.
“Every attempt to undermine the Task Force’s activities with the goal to seek its dissolution will be an effort to undermine government’s goal of stopping the land destruction activities as part of poor mining practices, and will place the selfish interests of some officials over the national interest.
“The Omanhene sees his mandate as one to hold in trust the land and preserve its resources for his citizens both alive and unborn,” an Akyem Kotoku State actor said.
Akyem Kotoku State is currently the centre of mining operations in Ghana, hence political and business interests in the state have driven the stakes higher, with strong arms competing to take over control of the minerals by all means.
A Daily Guide Report