'We are not associated with claims of political interference in Apinto concession' — RMG responds to The Fourth Estate report

Mining firm RMG Company Ltd has distanced itself from allegations contained in a publication by The Fourth Estate investigative outlet concerning its former operations at the Apinto concession.

The company’s response follows a publication by The Fourth Estate which reported that illegal miners linked to the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) had taken over the Apinto concession in the Prestea-Huni Valley Municipality after RMG’s mining licence was revoked.

The publication further reported that the operators had accumulated nearly GH¢5 million in unpaid electricity bills during its mining at the concession.

According to the investigative outlet, some political actors have been facilitating the continued operations at the site.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 22, RMG said the views, allegations and conclusions contained in the report were those of the publisher and should not be attributed to the company.

“RMG Company Ltd wishes to state, unequivocally, that it has not authorized, commissioned, endorsed or participated in the publication or dissemination of the said report. The views, allegations, assertions and conclusions contained in that publication are entirely those of the publisher and should not, under any circumstances, be construed as representing the position of RMG Company Ltd,” the company said in part of the statement.

RMG also rejected suggestions that the government or its officials supported or facilitated any takeover of its mining operations.

The firm added that it does not want to be drawn into political discussions surrounding the matter.

The company said it has maintained a professional relationship with government institutions and acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission in efforts to restructure its operations.

It added that it is working towards restoring its mining activities and creating employment opportunities while complying with mining regulations and environmental requirements.

“RMG remains committed to its investment in Ghana and is actively working towards the full restoration of its operations with the objective of creating sustainable employment opportunities for over 5,000 young Ghanaians, while operating in strict compliance with all applicable laws, environmental standards and regulatory requirements,” the statement noted.

The company urged the public and media to avoid attributing political positions or commentary from The Fourth Estate’s publication to RMG.