Concerned farmers slam Amenfi East NPP for inciting violence against security personnel
The Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana (CFAG) has criticised the Parliamentary Candidate for Amenfi East, Ernest Frimpong, and Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah for inciting violence against security personnel in the constituency.
In a video that has gone viral on social media, Ernest Frimpong is seen at a forum with individuals believed to be illegal miners, allegedly advising them to resist military officers on patrol who attempt to sack them forcefully.
In a statement, the president of the Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana, Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu, described the utterances as “unfortunate” and “unacceptable.”
“We deem this conduct unfortunate and unacceptable, as it undermines the rule of law and puts the lives of security personnel at risk. If our laws function effectively, the PC and Minister must face arrest and prosecution for their actions.
“Inciting violence against those sworn to protect our nation is a serious offence, and we demand swift action from the appropriate authorities. We stand in solidarity with the security services and urge them to remain committed to their duties”.
The group also called on the “government to address the issue of galamsey, which has devastated our farmlands and water bodies. We must protect our environment and ensure sustainable farming practices”.
“We expect a prompt response from the authorities and urge all Ghanaians to condemn this reckless behaviour”.
Following the backlash, Mr Frimpong issued a statement on Sunday, June 9, 2024, claiming he had been taken out of context from the two-hour engagement with artisanal small-scale miners.
According to him, he explained to the small-scale miners to adhere to the laws governing small-scale mining in Ghana. He assured the miners of their protection under these laws when engaging in responsible practices.
He cited that miners engaging in legal mining often get attacked and extorted, and their machines are destroyed, causing disaffection with the government. Therefore, they need to guard themselves against unauthorised security personnel.
Mr Frimpong denied the utterances in the viral video and called on the public to disregard the allegations, stating that they are “inaccurately represented” and “misrepresented”.