Some youth in Tarkwa in the Western Region have taken to the streets to demand the renewal of the mining lease of Gold Fields Ghana, warning that failure to do so could have political consequences.
In a video circulating online, the demonstrators are seen holding placards and chanting while calling on the government to extend the company’s mining agreement.
Some of the placards carried messages appealing for the continuation of Gold Fields’ operations in the Tarkwa area.
The protesters argued that the mining company has contributed significantly to the local economy through job creation, business opportunities and community development projects.
Some of the demonstrators issued a strong warning to President John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), suggesting that the party could lose support in the area if the concerns of the youth are ignored.
“Renew Gold Fields’ lease or we’ll collapse the NDC,” was one of the messages reportedly expressed by the protesters during the demonstration.
Gold Fields Ghana, which operates the Tarkwa Mine, is one of the country’s major gold producers and a significant employer in the Western Region.
The company’s operations have over the years attracted both praise and debate over issues including employment, mining agreements and community benefits.
The government has not yet officially responded to the demonstration, and it remains unclear what decision will be taken regarding the renewal of the company’s mining lease.
Watch the video HERE.
