Deputy Lands and Natural Resources Minister and MP for Tarkwa Nsuaem, George Mireku Duker has refuted allegations of his involvement in illegal mining around Dompim-Pepesa in the Tarkwa.
He described the allegations as needless, baseless, vain and unfortunate.
“I wish to state emphatically that I don’t have any links to the activities of any form of illegal mining anywhere,” he noted in a statement on Tuesday.
“I must indicate that the fight against illegal mining is a herculean task which cannot be won by just pointing accusing fingers at leaders, government appointees, and others at various levels in mining districts with the intent of tarnishing their image for political expediency and selfish parochial interests without any fact,” he stated further.
Hon. Mireku Duker’s statement is against the backdrop of accusations by a chief of Dompim-Pepesa in Tarkwa, Nana Nyonwah Panyin IV, that the member of parliament operated a galamsey site in the municipality.
Meanwhile, the member of parliament has indicated that he will file a legal suit against the “self-acclaimed” chief.
On Monday, the Office of the Special Prosecutor announced that it has commenced an investigation into issues related to illegal mining, citing certain public officers and companies.
President Akufo-Addo stated in a recent meeting with chiefs across the country that he will be engaging officials of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies in a bid to tackle the illegal mining menace.
