Eastern region: The Eastern Regional Representative on the Council of State, Evelyn Korang, has firmly denied allegations circulating on social media that accuse her of blocking cooperative mining efforts in the region. She described these allegations as a "deliberate campaign of lies and political mischief" aimed at damaging her reputation and misleading the public.
According to Ghana Web, Korang clarified that there is currently no government programme called 'Community Mining' under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government. She asserted that claims of her obstructing such a programme are unfounded, dishonest, and politically motivated. "You cannot block what does not exist. These claims are absolute lies," she emphasized in a statement.
Korang accused those spreading the allegations of attempting to shield illegal mining interests that are threatened by the government's firm stance against galamsey in the Eastern Region. She highlighted her active involvement in facilitating legal and regulated mining processes, noting her collaboration with chiefs, youth groups, and regulatory authorities to ensure that mining activities comply with the law.
She cited her efforts in guiding local leaders such as the Ankaasehene and Bunsohene, along with youth groups, to secure lawful mining arrangements. Korang pointed out that the negative campaign against her coincided with recent enforcement actions against illegal mining operations, prompted by a formal petition from the Bunsohene seeking urgent state intervention.
The petition outlined issues with armed illegal miners encroaching on farmlands and protected areas, causing environmental damage and threatening local livelihoods. Korang dismissed any links between her and the enforcement actions by NAIMOS, describing such attempts as cowardly distractions from criminal activities.
She reaffirmed the NDC government's dedication to environmental protection, food security, and community safety, insisting that they would not succumb to pressures from illegal mining operators. "If defending cocoa lands, rivers, and community safety makes me an enemy to illegal miners, then I wear that badge with honour," she declared.
Korang concluded by encouraging the public to reject misinformation and support leaders committed to safeguarding Ghana's environment and future, regardless of political challenges.