The National Democratic Congress (NDC) youth in the Ahafo-Ano North constituency have strongly rejected the endorsement of Richmond Aboagye Agyemang as the next Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).
According to the Concerned NDC Youth of Ahafo-Ano North, the constituency executives decision to support Agyemang is driven by their ulterior motives to further their illegal mining (galamsey) operations.
“We will not allow corrupt individuals to manipulate the system for their personal gains at the expense of our future,” said Kwabena Agyepong, a leading advocate for the Concerned Youth.
“Our lands and livelihoods are at stake. The NDC constituency executives can not force an MCE on us who has no intention of fighting galamsey. We stand firmly against their deception.”
The youth argue that the constituency executives’ endorsement of Agyemang is a desperate move to sustain their illegal activities, which directly contradicts President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to eradicating galamsey in the country.
They claim that Agyemang’s appointment would perpetuate the devastating effects of galamsey on the environment and the local economy.
Communities such as Subriso, Asikam, and Mfante have suffered severe environmental damage due to illegal mining.
The youth are determined to resist any attempt to appoint an MCE who would allow galamsey to continue. Instead, they are backing Richard Merz, a vocal advocate against illegal mining, for the MCE position.
“Unlike his opponent, Richard Merz has been a vocal advocate against illegal mining,” said Agyepong.
“His commitment to restoring the environment, ensuring maximum security, and effective stakeholder engagements as well as promoting sustainable development has earned him widespread support from the people of Ahafo-Ano North.”
The Concerned Youth are urging President Mahama and the general public to disregard the false narratives being pushed by the NDC constituency executives.
They maintain that the people of Ahafo-Ano North deserve an MCE who will prioritize their well-being and development over corrupt, self-serving interests.
The youth have vowed to intensify their resistance against any political interference aimed at endorsing candidates linked to galamsey.
They are calling on traditional authorities, civil society organizations, and government agencies to take a firm stand against illegal mining and ensure that the next MCE is someone who truly represents the interests of the people.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
