A High Court in Accra has ruled that Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, must defend himself against illegal mining charges. The case involves the Samreboi concession.
Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay dismissed a submission arguing there was no case to answer for Mr. Boasiako and his company, Akonta Mining Limited. The court stated that sufficient grounds exist to continue the trial.
The charges stem from alleged illegal mining activities. These activities are said to have occurred on a concession located in Samreboi.
Akonta Mining Limited and its leadership are now required to present evidence and witnesses. Their defense must address the allegations posed by the prosecution.
This legal action is part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal small-scale mining, often referred to as galamsey, in the country.
The court's decision means the legal process will proceed to the next stage. Mr. Boasiako and his company will have the opportunity to present their side of the story.
Ghana continues to address the environmental and economic damage caused by illegal mining operations.