The youth of Abirem, supported by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) youth wing in the constituency, have accused officials of the Local Management Committee (LMC) in the Birim North District of misappropriating funds from the Minerals Development Fund (MDF).
At a press conference, the NDC Constituency Youth Organizer, Frank Owusu Amoah, popularly known as Blavo, alleged that the LMC Chairman and Secretary unlawfully withdrew over GHC 300,000 from the 2024 tranche of the MDF.
He claimed the funds were transferred to New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate, Charles Asuako Owiredu, to support his campaign.
The MDF, established under Act 912 in 2016, allocates 20% of mineral royalties to support development in mining communities. Of this, 40% is managed by the Mining Community Development Scheme (MCDS) through the LMC.
Blavo detailed previous MDF allocations,and projects used for as follows. In 2020: GHC 500,000 for toilet facilities in Mamaso and Hweakwae.
2022-2023: GHC 250,000 for vocational training and start-up equipment for youth.
He alleged that GHC 300,000 from the 2024 tranche has however been diverted to purchase sewing machines, hair dryers, and other items, which were distributed to party faithfulls of the NPP outside the beneficiary communities to gain political favor for Charles Asuako Owiredu, Parliamentary candidate.
Blavo called on stakeholders, including local chiefs, assembly members, and representatives from Newmont, to demand the return of the funds and ensure transparency in future fund management.
He reiterated the importance of holding those responsible accountable:
“We call upon chiefs, assembly members, and all relevant stakeholders to investigate this misappropriation and ensure the funds are returned to the Mining Community Development Fund.”
The youth also petitioned the Chief of Abirem, Obrempong Kwesi Amoh Kyeretwie I, urging him to initiate an investigation.
Attempts to get a response from Charles Asuako Owiredu and the LMC officials implicated in the allegations were unsuccessful, as they declined to comment.
The youth insist they will remain vigilant in safeguarding community resources meant for development.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
