Ashanti Region: Mpatuam residents demonstrate over deaths in military Confrontation

Tension is mounting in Mpatuam, a town in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region, as residents protest the deaths of two people, including a local Assembly Member, following violent clashes with the military.

The incidents, which occurred on Monday and Tuesday, have sparked outrage in the community. According to reports, the disturbances began when soldiers allegedly prevented some residents from entering a mining concession belonging to Asanko Gold.

Michael Sekyi, the Assembly Member for Mpatuam West, confirmed that the first casualty was recorded on Monday. Traditional leaders and opinion leaders were said to have performed rituals before retrieving the body.

However, on their way to the mortuary, some enraged youth diverted and left the body at a nearby military base in protest. That action triggered fresh clashes, leading to the death of a second victim, who was later identified as another Assembly Member.

The Ashanti Regional Minister has since visited Mpatuam to commiserate with the bereaved families. He assured residents that government is taking measures to resolve the matter and appealed for calm as security agencies conduct investigations.

“We understand the pain this community is going through, and I want to assure you that the matter is being thoroughly investigated,” the Minister stated.

Despite these assurances, protests have continued, with residents demanding full accountability and justice for the deceased.

“We cannot keep quiet while our leaders are killed in broad daylight. We want justice, and we will not rest until the truth comes out,” one aggrieved protester told journalists.

Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com