A suspended vice Chairman of the governing New Patriotic Party in the Central Region has apologised to veteran journalist, Abdul Malik Kweku Baako Junior, over claims the latter was engaged in illegal small-scale mining.

The embattled Horace Ekow Ewusi accused the Editor-in-chief of the New Crusading Guide and under cover journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas together with Aleska C & G and Heritage mining, of being involved in galamsey activities, destroying Ghana's forest.

Mr. Baako dragged Ewusi to court, demanding among others, damages to the sum of GH¢1million for defamation.

Kweku Baako

However, the case was withdrawn from court for arbitration. In the settlement, Mr. Ekow admitted the allegations are false.

“In this regard, the comments made are incorrect [and] most regrettable. I, Horace Ekow Ewusi, do hereby apologise and unconditionally and unreservedly retract the allegations and comments made against Mr. Abdul Malik Kweku Baako and his associates…” he stated in his apology.

Mr. Ewusi -- who was recently arrested by police in connection with some missing excavators seized from illegal miners -- also agreed to have his apology published in the Daily Graphic, in return, Kweku Baako would waive his claims to damages.

Read the full agreement below