Anglogold confronts arrested workers' demands in Ghana

Seven To Face Court For Protesting At Anglogold Obuasi Gold Mine

Modern Ghana News

10 March 2020

Some seven persons arrested for their involvement in disturbances at Anglogold Obuasi Gold mine have been slapped with four charges – conspiracy to commit crime, unlawful assembly, unlawful demonstration and causing unlawful damage.

The seven, who are currently on remand were part of a group of demonstrators who blocked the main entrance of the mining company demanding employment for indigenes.

Speaking to Citi News, the Obuasi Municipal Commander, DSP Martin Asenso said calm has been restored while investigations continue.

“The court remanded them into prison custody. They are expected to reappear on the 23rd of this month. We proffered these charges against them; unlawful assembly, unlawful demonstration, and causing unlawful damage.”

Meanwhile, the Unit Committee Secretary of the Anyinam Electoral Area, Kojo Kwarteng who confirmed that three persons were injured said they would be seeking bail for the seven remanded persons.

“The family and community leaders have decided to hire a lawyer,” he said.

Anglogold Ashanti ex-staff stage demo over delays

A similar protest occurred in the area weeks ago when some former workers of Anglogold Ashanti poured onto the streets of Obuasi to protest delays in the release of their monies from the Heritage Fund, established over 100 years ago.

The over 6,500 affected ex-workers had accused the government of being adamant in [not] listening to their concerns.

Convener for the group, Isaac Asiedu warned that they will take action against the government if it fails to release the monies.

“We are demonstrating to protest against the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo for the delay and refusal of the payment of the Heritage Fund due members of the company following the collapse of the company. The Heritage Fund that was instituted by a British man in 1897 to benefit the workforce of the company when mining ceased operation has still not been released after the company was closed in 2014.”

“All processes that were commenced to fully claim benefits have proved futile. The President claims to be a listening government but he is not because he has remained adamant on this issue. We the members are embarking on a demonstration through the principal streets of Obuasi. This is to enable the government to realise the intensity and frustration of its members.”