The Chiefs and people of Somey Traditional Area on Thursday rescinded their earlier decision to withdraw from the mediation process ongoing to resolve the impasse between them and the foreign salt mining company, Kensington Salt Limited.
Following fierce clashes between the people of Agbozume, and its satellite island communities on one side, and the British salt mining company on the other over the activities of the firm which residents claimed were affecting their livelihoods, the Volta Regional Coordinating Council(VRCC) initiated a process to address the impasse.
However, the peace process reached a deadlock with the withdrawal of the Somey Traditional Area, after they accused the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr John Peter Amewu, of undermining the efforts of the mediation team by directing that the mining company halts its operations without recourse to the mediation team.
But in a sudden U-turn, the Paramount Chief Togbui Adamah III, together with his wing chiefs and elders, announced a change in their earlier decision, explaining that a consensus has been reached and their qualms were settled.
During their courtesy call to the Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Letsa, the Chiefs further pledged their commitment towards the peace building process.
“We shall take an active part in the subsequent moves and contribute very effectively to the resolution of the impasse between the seven seas salt company and the salt winning communities of the concession area” he stated.
The Volta Regional Minister in his response commended the chiefs and people of Somey for reconsidering their stance, and pledged government’s commitment to addressing the challenges in the area.
He also hinted the Chiefs of an imminent working visit by the Minister of Land and Natural Resources to set out roadmaps towards providing a sustainable potable water system for the communities.
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(Via: CitiFM Online Ghana)
