The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Mining Committee has strongly rejected accusations from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that it is recruiting thugs in the Obuasi East Constituency to interfere with the December 7, 2024, elections.

Nana Boakye, the NPP National Organiser, also known as Nana B, claimed that the NDC was conducting private security training under the guise of legitimate activities in the area.

In response, Samuel Hadjor, the Secretary of the NDC Mining Committee, dismissed these allegations as false and without merit, urging the public to ignore them.

Hadjor reaffirmed the NDC’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful election process and cautioned against attempts to damage the party’s reputation.

“On November 12, 2024, the NDC Mining Committee held a public mining conference at Mawuli Hotel in Obuasi. The purpose of this conference was to introduce and discuss the NDC’s mining policy document with miners and stakeholders”.

“This conference coincided with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign tour in Obuasi. It was an open event attended by dignitaries, including former Ashanti Regional Minister Alexander Ackon and former MCE for Obuasi Richard Kwasi Ofori Buadi, also known as Zuba. These baseless allegations by the NPP should be treated with the contempt they deserve,” he added.

Mr. Hadjor implied that the allegations were a result of the NPP's anxiety and dissatisfaction, as the party faces challenges in winning back the confidence of mining communities.

“The NDC’s mining policy has brought hope to miners and small-scale operators, making the NPP apprehensive about losing support. Instead of addressing their failures, they are resorting to baseless propaganda,” he said.

Reaffirming the NDC’s dedication to a peaceful election process, Mr. Hadjor urged Ghanaians to disregard the accusations and concentrate on the relevant issues.

“The NDC is committed to peace and stability. We will not engage in activities that threaten the security of this country. On December 7, 2024, we encourage Ghanaians to vote massively for John Dramani Mahama and all NDC parliamentary candidates,” he stated.

Additionally, he urged miners across the country to reject the NPP and rally behind the NDC’s vision for a reformed mining sector that focuses on the well-being of miners and their communities.

The claims and the NDC’s strong rebuttal have further heightened the tension in the lead-up to the elections, as both parties ramp up their campaigns ahead of the December polls.