MP, MCE Deny Galamsey Allegations in Yawkrom; Assure Residents of Protection

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Prestea Huni-Valley, Hon. Wisdom Cudjoe, and the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Mathew Ayeh, have refuted allegations linking them to illegal mining (Galamsey) activities in Yawkrom.

The two leaders met with community residents on Monday, after rumours circulated that they had brought people into the area to engage in galamsey operations that allegedly destroyed cocoa farms.

Addressing the gathering, Hon. Cudjoe firmly denied the claims, explaining that he first heard of the allegations while attending a national funeral. Out of concern, he immediately contacted the District Police Commander, who dispatched officers to investigate. According to the police report, no galamsey operations or destruction of cocoa farms were found in Yawkrom.

The MP further revealed that he had been summoned by the Minister responsible for Mines to respond to the issue. He said the Minister urged him to visit the community and provide an update. Hon. Cudjoe also noted that all licenses issued under the previous administration had been revoked, stressing that any new license would depend on his report after the visit.

“My mandate is to protect your farms, water bodies, and the community from illegal mining,” he assured residents, calling on them to remain calm and united.

The MCE, Hon. Mathew Ayeh, also described the allegations as false and unfortunate. He said he first heard of the claims while attending a state funeral and, like the MP, contacted the District Police Commander to verify. Their checks found no excavators or evidence of illegal mining in Yawkrom.

Demonstrating his commitment, the MCE joined Hon. Cujoe to meet residents in person, assuring them of their continued dedication to safeguarding livelihoods.

“The government is determined to protect our water bodies, farmlands, and environment. I will never conspire to destroy the very resources that sustain us,” Hon. Ayeh stressed.

He urged the people to stay calm, stating that both the Assembly and the government are committed to supporting Yawkrom with the development projects it deserves. 

Collins Ransford Abam, ISD