Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and owner of Akonta Mining, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has issued a stern warning to former President John Dramani Mahama. This comes after Mahama vowed to amend laws and take stricter measures against illegal mining, including targeting operations like Akonta Mining in forest reserves, if he wins the 2024 election.
Chairman Wontumi, expressed his displeasure with Mahama’s comments, accusing the NDC flagbearer of intending to use his power to settle scores with perceived adversaries. He emphasized that the distinction between illegal and legal mining lies in proper documentation, which he claims he has always secured as a veteran miner.
“Can you push Wontumi? Even illegal and legal, what is the difference? The difference is a document. So, as a veteran miner, I know how to get documents done,” Wontumi stated, underscoring his legal rights to continue his mining operations.
Furthermore, Wontumi accused Mahama of harboring a bias against the Ashanti Region, suggesting that the former president’s policies are aimed at undermining the region’s economic interests. “You want to win to avenge your enemies…anything concerning Ashanti, you don’t like it,” he added.
Chairman Wontumi’s comments highlight the ongoing tensions between political figures and the mining industry in Ghana, particularly concerning illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” which has become a significant issue in the country’s environmental and economic landscape.
