The Minority in Parliament has vowed to pursue a compensation package for owners of the 14 tipper trucks and excavators torched by soldiers in the Northern Region .
Labelling the act “wicked”, the opposition lawmakers say they will not rest until the government "restores the livelihood" of the vehicle owners.
Fourteen tipper trucks and excavators were set ablaze by armed military personnel for being used to mine sand near the Dalun river, a tributary of the White Volta in the Kumbungu District of the Region.
one of the burnt trucks
The Ghana Water Company Limited has complained about the work of the sand miners, which it said is affecting the production of clean drinking water.
Defense Minister, Dominic Nitiwul has explained the military’s action followed several warnings to the sand winners to abandon their illegal activity, but the warnings went unheeded.
Defending the act, the Minister has dared the affected individuals to head to court if they are convinced their activity was legal .
one of the burnt trucks
The Minority has accepted the challenge, saying it will go to court to seek redress for the vehicle owners who have lost their “livelihoods and employment.”
Speaking at a meeting with leaders of the Tipper Trucks Drivers Association Friday, the Minority leader, Haruna Iddrisu promised to pursue the matter to its “utmost and logical conclusion.”
“We know the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as a property-owning and not a property-destroying party. The rights of the vehicle owners have been disrespected and breached,” he said, adding “nothing will stop us from seeking compensation.”
Haruna Iddrius with some Minority members
Mr Iddrisu said the Minority is not against any initiative to conserve water bodies provided it is on "notice and is adequately informed."
President of the Association, Yahaya Haruna thanked the Minority for its support and criticised comments made by the Defense Minister hours after the incident.
“We want your support to replace the affected vehicles because the union also contributes to the revenue the government makes,” he said.
Listen to Yahaya Haruna:
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