Residents of the Tutuka area in the Asutifi North District, Ahafo Region, have paused their three-day protest against Newmont in Kenyasi.
The decision to suspend the demonstration comes after the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources stepped in to address concerns over unpaid resettlement funds.
The protesters had been rallying for three days demanding a payment of GHS 21 million from the gold mining company.
The Ministry’s intervention, supported by local chiefs, the Ahafo Regional Minister, and the Asutifi North District Chief Executive, has led to a temporary ceasefire in the protest.
Nana Anim Dankwah, the Saamanhene of Kenyasi No. 1, spoke to the protesters on behalf of the Ministry and local officials.
He announced that following discussions between the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Newmont’s management in Accra, the Ministry has pledged to engage with the company’s headquarters in Denver, USA, within a week to facilitate the payment.
Nana Anim Dankwah reassured the residents that the local chiefs would exert maximum pressure on Newmont to ensure the funds are paid and encouraged them to stay calm as they await the Ministry’s actions.
In an interview one of the protest leaders, Nana Kwabena Amoateng, confirmed the suspension of the protest but cautioned that if Newmont does not meet the promised deadline with a satisfactory resolution, the residents will resume their demonstration.
Amoateng also noted that the Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council has promised to cover the costs incurred during the protest.
