Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has urged paramount chiefs to emulate the Paramount Chief of Asante Otumfuo Osei Tutu II by de-stooling chiefs found to be engaged in illegal mining.
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has de-stooled the Chief of Ohwim, Nana Kusi Baaye II, Nana Amofa Twumasi II, chief of Mpasaaso No.2, among others over multiple allegations, including their alleged involvement in illegal mining.
During a sitting of the Kumasi Traditional Council on Monday, February 24, 2025, Nana Kusi Baaye II who has served as Ohwimhene for 16 years was accused of desecrating the Great Oath, extortion, illegal land sales, and engaging in illegal mining activities.
Nana Amofa Twumasi II was also destooled over allegations including his questionable royal lineage, and a lack of oversight and accountability to his community and traditional leaders. The chief who has reigned for 41 years was found guilty after he appeared before the Asanteman Kumasi Traditional Council at the Manhyia Palace over the allegations.
In an interview on 3FM Sunrise with Johnnie Hughes, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, called on chiefs to help the government efforts in the fight against “galamsey”.
“Every paramount chief should emulate the Asantehene by destooling or deskinning chiefs who engage in illegal mining.” He stated.
He added that the government will not relent in combating illegal mining across the country.
“Many people think we are losing the fight against “galamsey” but we are not. We will deliver just as we promised in our manifesto about keeping our water bodies and conserving our forest reserves.” Ahmed Ibrahim stated.
Ghana’s rivers have been the lifeblood of communities, providing water, food, and a means of livelihood. But today, many are dying, poisoned by illegal mining activities that have left them clogged with mercury and silt.
The government is taking a bold step to reverse this damage with the launch of the Blue Water Initiative. At the Ghana Navy Forward Operating Base in Ezilebo in the Western region, 460 recruits have been recruited to become Blue Water Guards.
This Initiative is part of the broader ‘Reset Ghana Agenda’, which aims to train at least 2,000 personnel across the country this year. These individuals will monitor river health, identify illegal mining activities, and collaborate with local communities and traditional authorities to combat water pollution.
