The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has instructed all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) within the region to present their officially published fees and levies to the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) for evaluation.
This directive aims to ensure that the taxes and levies imposed by the assemblies, particularly those related to mining activities, comply with the stipulations of the Local Government Act.
This initiative comes in response to reports indicating that certain MMDAs have been levying taxes and fees on equipment and tools utilized in illegal mining operations within the region.
During the inauguration of the Special Planning Committee and Technical Sub-Committees of the MMDAs in Kumasi, Dr. Amoakohene emphasized that all fees, taxes, and levies imposed by the assemblies—especially those concerning mining operations—must strictly follow the established guidelines governing land use and associated activities as outlined in the Local Government Act.
He highlighted the necessity for MMDAs to fully adhere to the current by-laws on fee-fixing until new directives are provided by the Presidency.
Dr. Amoakohene also urged Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to ensure that individuals and companies involved in mining, sand winning, and quarrying acquire the requisite business certificates and permits from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
He warned the MMDCEs against the premature collection of levies from businesses that do not possess the appropriate authorization and may pose environmental hazards.
The Regional Minister further encouraged members of the newly established town planning committees to work diligently towards the advancement of the Ashanti Region.
He advised them to thoroughly evaluate areas that are not susceptible to flooding prior to granting building permits and cautioned developers against purchasing land in flood-prone regions, noting that such constructions could be subject to demolition by authorities.
