Aowin MP Oscar Ofori Larbi denies involvement in galamsey
Oscar Ofori Larbi, the Member of Parliament for Aowin Constituency, has denied allegations linking him to illegal mining activities in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve, describing the claims as false and malicious.
The Aowin Traditional Council recently accused the MP of engaging in illegal mining, commonly known as "galamsey," within the forest reserve. However, Mr. Ofori Larbi dismissed the accusations, stating they were intended to tarnish his reputation and distract him from his duties as an MP.
"My attention has been drawn to false claims that I am involved in illegal mining activities. These allegations are completely baseless, malicious, and deliberately calculated to damage my hard-earned reputation," he said in a statement.
He reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing the well-being of his constituents, adding that he would take legal action to address the defamatory claims. "I have instructed my legal team to engage the accusers to provide evidence of my involvement in galamsey. If these falsehoods persist, the necessary legal steps will be taken to protect my reputation," he emphasized.
Mr. Ofori Larbi also condemned the recent assault on members of the rapid response team, calling for an end to lawlessness and violence. "Acts of violence and impunity have no place in our society," he added.
Read Full Statement From Oscar Ofori Larbi:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
27/01/2025
Press Statement on Allegations of Illegal Mining
My attention has been drawn to false claims that I am involved in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as "galamsey."
The allegations are totally and completely false, baseless, malicious and deliberately calculated to injure my hard won reputation.
As the honourable Member of Parliament for Aowin, my topmost priority is the well being of my constituents.
Consequently, I have been a key advocate of sustainable development and environmental preservation. Illegal mining is destructive to our natural resources and threatens the livelihoods of future generations—a practice I strongly oppose.
For the avoidance of doubt, I have no involvement, directly or indirectly, in any illegal mining activities. It is disheartening that some faceless people have made it their stock in trade to perpetrated these unfounded allegations against me, in spite of my stiff resistance to illegal mining.
I condemn the recent act of violence and the loss of life in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve. This incident is deeply saddening.
It is worth pointing out that I nearly lost my bid for re-election due to my vigorous campaign against illegal mining.
My opposition to illegal mining made me quite unpopular among certain individuals and threatened my re-election bid in last December parliamentary elections.
My opposition to galamsey has always been real and unwavering, despite its adverse implications on my political fortunes.
I urge those spreading these baseless claims to cease their defamatory acts. My legal team has been instructed to take the necessary steps to protect my reputation if these falsehoods continue.
Furthermore, I condemn the assault on members of the rapid response team and any act of lawlessness. Violence and impunity have no place in our society.
I remain committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to protect Ghana’s natural resources and promote sustainable development.
Finally, I encourage my constituents and the general public to disregard these malicious rumours and treat them with the contempt that they deserve.