Lands Minister Consoles Family of Slain Assembly Member in Asanko Gold Clash, Pledges Full Probe
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has visited the bereaved family of a local Assembly Member who tragically lost his life during a violent confrontation between military personnel and youth from the Amansie South District.
The visit, which took place on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, forms part of the government’s broader effort to ease tensions and build trust in the aftermath of the deadly clash that occurred on September 9 at a concession site operated by Asanko Gold Ghana Limited.
Speaking to a crowd of mourning relatives, elders, and sympathizers, Minister Buah conveyed his heartfelt condolences, describing the late Assembly Member as a committed servant of the people and a pillar in his community.
“This is a heartbreaking loss. I offer you my deepest sympathies, and I grieve with you,” the Minister said, addressing the family in the local Akan language. “I assure you that the government will pursue a thorough and transparent investigation to uncover the truth and hold anyone responsible fully accountable. His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama also sends his sincere condolences.”
Lands-minister-commiserates
According to initial reports, the confrontation broke out when agitated youth from the area allegedly entered the mining site to protest what they called the company’s neglect of its social responsibilities and failure to deliver on local development promises. In response, the company reportedly called in military support to disperse the demonstrators—a move that tragically led to the fatal shooting of the Assembly Member.
Following the condolence visit, the Minister held a closed-door meeting with executives of Asanko Gold Ghana. He urged the company to strictly adhere to Ghana’s mining laws and to place community development at the heart of its operations. Minister Buah also emphasized the urgent need for mutual respect and open dialogue between the company and local residents.
“It is critical that we rebuild trust and prevent further escalation. The government is committed to finding a peaceful and lasting resolution that respects both the rule of law and the dignity of our communities,” he added.
The Minister was accompanied by a high-level government delegation, including the Acting CEO of the Minerals Commission, the Ministry’s Director of Communications, the Chief Inspector of Mines, the National Coordinator of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), and his Technical Advisor.
The visit marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to bring calm to the area and ensure justice is served.
