Asantehene To Summon Chiefs Whose Lands Have Been Invaded By ‘Galamseyers’

Chiefs in the Ashanti Region who have had their lands invaded by illegal miners will be summoned by the Asantehene for questioning and possible sanctions. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II says chiefs should not sit aloof while illegal mining activities ravage arable farmlands and water bodies.  He says the failure of some chiefs to reject

illicit concessions have contributed to the unending fight against ‘galamsey.’   “Next year, any Chief whose lands have been invaded will have to be summoned and questioned. If we visit your land and it has been destroyed by ‘galamsey’ activities, we will question why you watched unconcerned for the lands and water bodies

under your custody to be harmed. And if you’re unable to give valid reasons, we will sanction you so you learn a lesson and protect your land from the havoc,” Otumfour emphasized. The Asantehene’s comments follow an appeal by chiefs in the Ashanti Region to be granted summoning powers to help in

the fight against ‘galamsey.’  Speaking at a general meeting of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II noted that chiefs who allow their communities to be invaded by ‘galamsey’ are complicit in the act.  “If the miners appear before you that they have mining rights and you allow them to destroy your water

sources and lands then you are complicit. If we don’t fight it but rather take bribes from them to enrich yourself, what about the people you rule? Let’s be honest. Some chiefs are contributing to the menace,” the occupant of the Golden Stool said.