Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Ghana’s former Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, has publicly censured former President John Dramani Mahama for his perceived silence following alleged attacks on state properties by youth affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the aftermath of the 2024 elections. Expressing his disappointment on Lawson TV/Radio’s ‘Ghana Se Sen’ Morning Show, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu condemned the violence and urged Mahama to issue a public denunciation of such acts. This call for accountability comes in the wake of escalating tensions and unrest, highlighting the critical need for leadership to actively promote peace and discourage violence.
The former minister’s concerns are rooted in a specific incident – a deadly clash at the AngloGold Obuasi mine on January 18, 2025. Seven lives were tragically lost when illegal miners breached the mine’s security perimeter, underscoring the volatile situation surrounding resource control and the potential for violence to erupt. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu’s condemnation extends beyond the immediate actors involved in the clash to include those he believes are inciting such actions. He pointedly criticized a journalist for allegedly encouraging Obuasi youth to seize the gold mine, labeling such rhetoric as reckless and potentially criminal. This highlights the crucial role of responsible communication in preventing further escalation of conflict and maintaining social order.
Central to Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu’s argument is the legal framework governing mineral resources in Ghana. He emphasized Article 257(6) of the 1992 Constitution, which unequivocally states that all minerals in their natural state belong to the state and are held in trust by the President. This constitutional provision underscores that the Obuasi mine, and indeed all mineral resources within Ghana, are not the exclusive property of local residents or indigenous communities. This clarification aims to dispel any misconceptions about ownership and control of natural resources, reinforcing the principle of state sovereignty over these assets.
Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu’s pronouncements serve as a cautionary message against unlawful seizure of state assets. He warned that such actions have far-reaching consequences, referencing the principle of “what you sow, you will reap.” This suggests that those engaging in illegal activities and inciting violence will ultimately face the repercussions of their actions. His emphasis on adherence to the rule of law serves as a plea for peaceful and legal means of resolving disputes, highlighting the importance of respecting established legal processes and institutions. He underscored the fact that a coup d’état has not occurred in Ghana, implying that the existing legal framework remains valid and must be upheld to maintain stability.
The former minister’s appeal for restraint and condemnation of violence underscore the urgent need for responsible leadership to intervene and restore calm. He emphasizes that the pursuit of individual or group interests should not come at the expense of national peace and stability. The tragic loss of life at the Obuasi mine serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked violence and the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent further escalation. His call for adherence to the rule of law highlights the importance of due process and legal mechanisms in resolving disputes and maintaining order.
In essence, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu’s message is a multi-layered plea for peace, responsibility, and adherence to the rule of law. He condemns the violence, calls for accountability from political leaders, criticizes inflammatory rhetoric, and clarifies the legal framework governing mineral resources. His remarks highlight the interconnectedness of these issues and the crucial role that responsible leadership, communication, and adherence to the rule of law play in preventing further unrest and ensuring a stable and peaceful future for Ghana. He emphasizes the importance of unity and respect for legal processes in addressing grievances and maintaining social harmony. His warnings serve as a reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked violence and the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent further escalation.
