Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, has strongly refuted allegations that he supports illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.
In a statement issued on September 24, 2024, by Nana Bonya III, Atipimhene of the Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Council, and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), it was made clear that the claims made against Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II are both unfounded and false.
The statement addressed the misinterpretation of remarks made by Ogyeahoho Gyebi during the commissioning of the Minerals Commission’s district office at Bibiani. According to the Atipimhene, Ogyeahoho Gyebi’s words were twisted by a section of the media, leading to the wrongful accusation that he opposed the ban on illegal mining.
The traditional leader condemned those responsible for these false claims, asserting that Ogyeahoho Gyebi had never endorsed galamsey activities in any form.
The misunderstanding arose from a speech delivered by Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, which was reported by some media outlets as a statement of support for galamsey.
However, the statement from the Atipimhene clarified that Ogyeahoho’s remarks were taken out of context, and at no point did he express support for illegal mining activities. Instead, Ogyeahoho Gyebi has been a consistent advocate for responsible mining practices.
Over the years, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II has used various platforms to speak out against galamsey and its devastating effects on the environment, particularly on water bodies and forest reserves. He has always championed responsible mining that ensures the protection of natural resources while promoting sustainable development. The statement from the Atipimhene emphasized that any suggestion to the contrary was a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of Ogyeahoho Gyebi II.
“Ogyeahoho Gyebi II has on several platforms condemned illegal mining and has always supported responsible and regulated mining practices,” the statement read. The traditional leader’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection has been well-documented, making the recent publications against him particularly troubling.
The accusations against Ogyeahoho Gyebi II were viewed as a calculated attempt to damage his standing, not only within the Sefwi Anhwiaso traditional area, where he serves as Paramount Chief, but also in his broader role as President of the National House of Chiefs. Given his influence and leadership, such allegations are serious and could undermine the important work he has done in advocating for the well-being of Ghana’s natural environment.
In response to the false claims, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II has called on journalists to maintain professionalism and adhere to ethical standards in their reporting. He stressed the critical role the media plays in nation-building and urged reporters to be cautious and responsible in their work.
“Ogyeahoho has therefore advised journalists to be more professional and ethical in the discharge of their duties,” the statement noted.
The traditional leader reminded journalists that as the Fourth Estate of governance, they have a vital role in shaping public discourse and contributing to the country’s development. By maintaining high ethical standards, the media can help build trust and ensure that the public receives accurate and reliable information.
Ogyeahoho Gyebi II expressed concern that some media outlets had allowed themselves to be used as conduits for spreading false information, which has the potential to cause harm not only to individuals but also to national efforts to combat illegal mining.
He emphasized that journalists must resist the temptation to be swayed by sensationalism or political interests that could lead to the dissemination of inaccurate reports.
The spread of misinformation about traditional leaders such as Ogyeahoho Gyebi II can have far-reaching consequences, particularly in areas where these leaders hold significant authority and influence.
The traditional chief’s efforts to protect the environment and advocate for responsible mining have been an integral part of his leadership, making the recent allegations all the more damaging.
The issue of illegal mining has been a contentious topic in Ghana for many years, with both the government and civil society working to find lasting solutions to the problem. Galamsey has led to the destruction of vast tracts of land, polluted water bodies, and caused irreversible environmental damage in many parts of the country. In this context, leaders like Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II have played a crucial role in raising awareness and advocating for policies that promote sustainable mining practices.
As the country continues to grapple with the challenges posed by illegal mining, it is essential that the voices of leaders who promote responsible practices are not silenced or misrepresented. The role of the media in reporting accurately and fairly is particularly important in ensuring that the public remains informed and that efforts to combat galamsey are supported by all stakeholders.
Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II’s statement serves as a reminder of the power of the media in shaping narratives and influencing public opinion. By adhering to ethical standards, journalists can help ensure that leaders who are committed to Ghana’s progress are not unfairly targeted or maligned.
In conclusion, the statement issued by Nana Bonya III on behalf of Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II underscores the traditional leader’s commitment to responsible mining and environmental protection. It also calls on journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in their work, recognizing the significant role they play in the nation’s development.
Ogyeahoho Gyebi II remains dedicated to promoting policies that protect Ghana’s natural resources, and any attempt to misrepresent his stance on illegal mining is both false and harmful.
