We are not recruiting thugs in Obuasi East – NDC Mining Committee

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Mining Committee has categorically denied allegations by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that it is recruiting thugs in the Obuasi East Constituency to disrupt the December 7, 2024, elections.

The claims were made by NPP National Organiser Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, who alleged that the NDC was conducting private security training disguised as legitimate activities in the area.

In a swift rebuttal, the NDC Mining Committee Secretary, Samuel Hadjor, dismissed the accusations as baseless and unfounded, urging the public to disregard them.

Hadjor emphasized that the NDC remains committed to peaceful elections and warned against attempts to tarnish the party’s image.

“On November 12, 2024, the NDC Mining Committee held a public mining conference at Mawuli Hotel in Obuasi. The purpose of this conference was to introduce and discuss the NDC’s mining policy document with miners and stakeholders,” Mr. Hadjor stated.

He emphasized that the event, which was widely advertised and covered by major media outlets such as GHOne TV, Joy News, and TV3, was far from clandestine.

“This conference coincided with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign tour in Obuasi. It was an open event attended by dignitaries, including former Ashanti Regional Minister Alexander Ackon and former MCE for Obuasi Richard Kwasi Ofori Buadi, also known as Zuba. These baseless allegations by the NPP should be treated with the contempt they deserve,” he added.

Fear and Frustration

Mr. Hadjor suggested the accusations stem from the NPP’s fear and frustration, as the party struggles to regain the trust of mining communities.

“The NDC’s mining policy has brought hope to miners and small-scale operators, making the NPP apprehensive about losing support. Instead of addressing their failures, they are resorting to baseless propaganda,” he said.

A Call for Peaceful Elections

Reiterating the NDC’s commitment to peaceful elections, Mr. Hadjor urged Ghanaians to disregard the claims and focus on the issues at hand.

“The NDC is committed to peace and stability. We will not engage in activities that threaten the security of this country. On December 7, 2024, we encourage Ghanaians to vote massively for John Dramani Mahama and all NDC parliamentary candidates,” he stated.

He also called on miners nationwide to reject the NPP and support the NDC’s vision for a reformed mining sector that prioritizes the welfare of miners and their communities.

The allegations and the NDC’s firm rebuttal have added another layer of tension to the pre-election atmosphere as both parties intensify their campaigns for the upcoming polls.