The Paramount Chief of Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area in the Eastern Region, Oseadeeyo Dr Frempong Manso IV, has chided the Akyem mines of Newmont Ghana Gold Limited for failing to pay for deprivation of land use to the paramountcy for all the years it has operated the mine.

Expressing disappointment, the paramount chief says the gold mining company has not included him in decisions relating to their operations on the Akem Kotoku land which includes the formation of Boards and a Trust Fund for the people of the area.

He explained that the same foundation has, however, provided funding for large projects including the construction of new Palaces for Sub-Chiefs who serve under the leadership of the paramount chief.

Oseadeeyo Frimpong Manso disclosed although the mining company has received all the support from the government and the chiefs and people of Kotoku traditional area to carry out their operations without any difficulties, the firm is making it difficult for them to access what is rightfully theirs in order to develop their area.

He speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Akwasidae at Akyem Oda in the Eastern region.

The Chief said claims that his gazette has not been signed by government, hence sidelining him amounts to disrespect, adding that, one does not need government gazette to become a chief.

For all the years Newmont has operated in Akyem, the chief pointed out that the company has never provided any Social Responsibility Services to the paramount stool, even though, they do it for some Communities within the traditional area.

“I  see no reason why the mining company should frustrate our efforts to access our own fund to embark on development for the people. It has become necessary to start a campaign to let the world and the public at large to know how unfair and dubious the company has behaved since the onset of their operations in the area."

“It is rather unfortunate that some Ghanaians are helping these companies to act against the people of the area where they continue to reap significant returns for their company and shareholders." He stated

The Kotokumanhene further stated that, once access is provided the construction of the new palace and the Oda stadium can be accelerated while the burnt Oda Market can be restored. 

The Abontendomhene of the Akyem Kotoku traditional area, Osabarima Ankomah Bempong I also used the opportunity to advise the youth to desist from engaging in violent activities since it has a negative impact on development.