- Dr. Frank Amoakohene cautions the public against spreading unverified claims
- Describes galamsey accusations against regional ministers as baseless
- Says the allegations amount to defamation; lawyers demand evidence
Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has cautioned the public against misusing freedom of speech to spread falsehoods, warning that baseless accusations can damage reputations and hinder national progress.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Dr. Amoakohene responded to allegations made by Windell Yeboah on Aluta FM, claiming that regional ministers in the Ashanti, Eastern, and Western Regions were involved in illegal mining activities.
He dismissed the allegations as unfounded and harmful, insisting that the government remains dedicated to fighting illegal mining and will not shield any official engaged in wrongdoing.
“Anyone who thinks my statements are defamatory or criminal is free to petition the court. We have laws in this country,” he said.
Dr. Amoakohene noted that the accusations against him and the other ministers amount to defamation, prompting him to direct his lawyers to request evidence from the accuser.
Although an apology was later issued, it failed to address the specific claims, leading to further action.
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has since taken statements from the ministers, while the accuser was arrested for allegedly failing to respond to a police invitation.
Dr. Amoakohene said he trusts the investigative process and wants the findings made public. “If there was any evidence, they would have called for my resignation. This is not about my position—defamation is defamation,” he emphasized.
He assured that all the ministers involved are ready to cooperate fully as investigations proceed.
