The Communication Bureau of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Prestea Huni Valley Constituency has issued a strong rebuttal to claims raised by a group of individuals purportedly representing local miners and residents regarding the appointment of Alhaji Ishaque Dauda as the Managing Director (MD) of Prestea Sankofa Gold Limited (PSGL).

In a statement, the NDC described these concerns as “misguided” and “driven by selfish and greedy motives,” aimed at undermining the progress of both the company and the broader community. The party reaffirmed its unwavering support for Mr. Dauda’s leadership, emphasizing his early achievements and commitment to restoring the company’s operational efficiency.

Debunking Misconceptions About the Company’s Operations

The NDC strongly refuted claims that local miners in Prestea supply “85 to 90 percent” of the company’s raw materials.

According to the party, PSGL—established in 1994 to extract gold from old tailings—sources its feed from various small-scale miners and other suppliers beyond Prestea.

“The assertion that these individuals can withhold tailings or disrupt operations by blocking trucks is an empty threat that overestimates their role and underestimates the company’s operational resilience,” the statement read.

The NDC further warned that such actions, if taken, would only harm the community, drawing parallels to the economic challenges faced when the company shut down between November 2016 and 2019.

Support for Alhaji Ishaque Dauda’s Appointment

The party highlighted that within just over a month in office, Mr. Dauda has already implemented significant reforms, including a comprehensive audit of the previous administration.

The NDC accused the previous leadership, allegedly dominated by “mediocre NPP loyalists,” of mismanagement, adding that Mr. Dauda’s leadership represents a shift toward transparency and accountability.

Furthermore, the party noted the revitalisation of the company’s tailings dam under Mr. Dauda’s leadership, questioning why his critics have ignored this key achievement.

Exposing the Real Motives Behind the Opposition

The NDC labeled the individuals opposing Mr. Dauda’s appointment as “faceless entities” who are motivated by self-interest rather than genuine concern for the company or the community.

“These are not genuine representatives of our community but selfish, greedy individuals intimidated by Mr. Dauda’s appointment. They fear that his tenure will halt their corrupt involvement in the company’s affairs, which thrived under the previous mismanagement,” the statement asserted.

The party further stressed that PSGL is a national asset, not a personal enterprise, and leadership appointments should be based on competence rather than parochial interests.

Rebutting Political Consequences of the Appointment

Addressing claims that the NDC’s electoral fortunes in Prestea would be negatively affected if an indigene was not appointed as MD, the party dismissed such arguments as baseless. It cited past elections where the NDC secured victories in Prestea despite having MDs from outside the locality.

“The claim that the previous government’s defeat stemmed from a similar ‘outside’ appointment is a gross oversimplification of electoral dynamics and an attempt to stoke division where none exists,” the statement added.

Call for Unity and Support for Progress

The NDC urged all residents of Prestea Huni Valley, party supporters, and well-meaning Ghanaians to rally behind Mr. Dauda.

“His leadership aligns with His Excellency the President’s agenda of resetting the country, of which Prestea is an integral part. Let us not succumb to the machinations of a few selfish individuals who seek to supplant the collective good for their personal advantage,” the statement urged.

The party emphasised that Mr. Dauda’s leadership will bring jobs, boost local commerce, and restore Prestea’s economic vibrancy, urging the community to embrace his tenure for the collective benefit of all.

Final Statement

The NDC concluded by categorically distancing itself from the group of alleged 13 individuals opposing the appointment.

“As the leadership of the NDC in Prestea, with the full backing of our membership, we disassociate ourselves from these so-called faceless individuals. The entire constituency of Prestea Huni Valley is solidly behind the President’s appointment. The new MD is welcome, Prestea is his home, and he can count on the full support of the NDC in the constituency,” the statement affirmed.