A/R: Residents of Mpatuam protest over deaths in military clash

Residents of Mpatuam in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region have taken to the streets to protest the deaths of two individuals, including the Assembly Member for the Esaase Dominase Electoral Area, following violent clashes with military personnel earlier this week.

The fatalities occurred during confrontations that broke out on Monday and Tuesday, resulting in heightened tensions within the community.

Reports indicate that the clashes began after soldiers confronted residents allegedly attempting to access a mining concession owned by Asanko Gold.

Sekyi Michael, Assembly Member for Mpatuam West, acknowledged one fatality resulting from Monday’s initial clash. Local chiefs and opinion leaders conducted rituals, retrieved the body, and transported it to the mortuary.

In protest, angry youth abandoned the body at the military base, precipitating another confrontation and a second death, later identified as an Assembly Member.

The Ashanti Regional Minister has visited the community, offering condolences to the bereaved families and ensuring residents that steps are being taken to address the situation, while urging calm during ongoing investigations.

Residents remain infuriated, demanding justice for the victims, and protests continue, with community members advocating transparency and accountability.