The tension in Obuasi has grown as Small Scale Miners issue a strong warning to AngloGold Ashanti. According to the miners, they have been denied a working site for months, and they say the situation has reached a breaking point. The association announced that Obuasi Small Scale Miners are giving the company a one-week ultimatum to provide a designated place to work. This call from the Small Scale Miners emphasizes the frustration and hardship they have endured since a tragic incident earlier in the year.
The miners explained during a press conference that members have been suffering since the January shooting that led to the death of nine miners. They said promises made after the tragedy have not been fulfilled. The spokesperson recalled that the National Chief Imam visited them after the incident to calm tensions and assured them he would help push for a concession. However, the Obuasi Small Scale Miners say they have not received any update since that visit, leaving them abandoned and disappointed.
The association also raised concerns about the presence of soldiers in various communities. They reported that soldiers fired warning shots in Ahansoyewodea, frightening residents. In another incident, a young boy reportedly died after being chased by soldiers in the Pompola area. According to the miners, these incidents have increased since Emmanuel Baidoo took over as the sustainability manager of AngloGold Ashanti, creating tension between the company and the community.
They added that AngloGold Ashanti promised to allocate land for the miners after the January tragedy, but ten months later, no formal communication has been made. The miners called on the President, the Chief Imam, leaders of Obuasi, and national authorities to intervene and ensure the company fulfills its promise. They warned that if nothing changes within one week, they will take matters into their own hands.
At the press conference, advisor Seidu Tahiru expressed disappointment in President John Mahama, claiming he had promised to support them during his campaign but has now turned away from their concerns. Another miner shared his painful story, explaining how he lost his leg after being shot during the military clash. He said many miners who were injured or affected by the incident are still at home struggling to feed their families without support.
As the one-week deadline approaches, the miners say they will mark the one-year anniversary of those who died during the conflict if AngloGold Ashanti does not respond. They warned that the situation will not be easy if the company continues to ignore them.
PN Media states clearly that the opinions and accusations expressed in this story are those of the individuals involved. PN Media does not support or endorse their claims but is reporting the issue as part of its duty to inform the public about events happening within the community.
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