They also demanded full implementation of local employment agreement signed in 2014 by their representatives and NGGL. Led by two civil society organizations, Omanbotantim and Concerned Youth of Ahafo at a press conference in Kenyasi addressed by its Chairman, Mr. Kennedy Adu Adjei accused NGGL and its sub-contractors of under developing residents in the catchment area by their constant job cuts to residents.

He lamented that instead of the companies reducing poverty and bridging the developmental gap of the area, their activities had led to the loss of their livelihood, destruction of the environment and increased in poverty levels of the people.

Mr. Adu Adjei said residents have lost confidence in the leader of the current executives of Newmont Ahafo Development Foundation (NADeF) accusing them of working for their personal gain and therefore called for the expansion of the forum to include graduates, student unions, the youth and community based organizations as well as signing a new agreement with the communities.

The Chairman of Omanbotantim said residents and local employees were also unfairly treated and intimidated by NGGL and its sub-contractors and wondered why the Police and District Assembly sit and allow that to happen to them. He called on NGGL to redeem its image by fulfilling its pledge to upgrade the Kenyasi Clinic to a District Hospital.

The agitation of the communities forced the Police last week to seek a court injunction to stop a planned demonstration in Kenyasi on Tuesday.