By Adnan Adams Mohammed
The General Secretary of the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union (GMWU), Abdul-Moomin Gbana, has delivered a firm defence of state regulatory institutions, insisting that the rule of law must prevail over community “agitation” in the management of the Bogoso–Prestea mine.
Mr. Gbana speaking on a radio discussion addressed the brewing dispute between Heath Goldfields Limited (HGL) and the Coalition of Concerned Citizens of Bogoso and Prestea.
He cautioned that while citizen concerns are valid, they do not hold the authority to oversee mining operations.
“I think it’s important to place on record that the concerned citizens… are not regulators,” Gbana stated.
“The Minerals Commission is the regulator and is in charge of ensuring that if the mine is not operating according to plan, it will call that mine to order.”
A Clean Bill of Health?
The Bogoso–Prestea mine one of Ghana’s oldest gold assets has been a flashpoint for controversy since Heath Goldfields took over the lease in late 2024. Residents and former workers have raised red flags over the company’s technical capacity and financial backing.
However, Mr. Gbana revealed that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources conducted a “thorough due diligence” through a committee led by the Ministry’s Chief Director. This probe was triggered by initial agitations and the fact that HGL had not yet secured its Mining Operating Permit.
“After the committee completed its work, the minister was satisfied, the government was satisfied, and went ahead and issued the permit,” Gbana explained, noting that the permit was granted only about a month ago, followed by an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) clearance.
The “David Madobi” Petition
The Union’s defense comes at a critical time. On Monday, January 19, the Coalition of Concerned Citizens, led by former worker Gabriel Madobi, submitted a formal petition to the Presidency calling for an independent probe.
The petitioners raised several explosive allegations:
● Financial Discrepancies: They claim HGL was incorporated with a capital of just GH¢10,000, despite promising to inject US$500 million into the mine.
● Ownership Questions: The coalition questioned HGL’s supposed link to Turkey’s Yıldırım Group, noting that HGL does not appear on the Turkish conglomerate’s official subsidiary lists.
● Unpaid Debts: Despite HGL’s announcement on Monday that it had paid GH¢136 million to settle legacy liabilities, the coalition argues this is only a fraction of what is owed in severance and SSNIT contributions.
No More Excuses
Despite these allegations, the GMWU remains optimistic. Mr. Gbana stated that as far as the Union is concerned, HGL has met its current commitments under their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
With all legal barriers and permits now reportedly cleared, the GMWU expects the company to move from “operational readiness” to full-scale production. “I do not see why Heath Goldfields would have any excuse in hitting the ground running,” Gbana concluded.
As the Presidency reviews the petition, the Bogoso–Prestea community remains on edge, caught between the government’s regulatory stamp of approval and the persistent doubts of the people on the ground.
Key Timeline of the Bogoso–Prestea Saga
Date Event
Sept 2024 Government terminates FGR Bogoso Prestea leases due to insolvency.
Dec 2024 Mining leases officially granted to Heath Goldfields Limited.
Oct 2025 Minerals Commission reportedly issues a 120-day notice to HGL to remedy funding breaches.
Jan 19, 2026 HGL announces GH¢136m payment for legacy debts; Coalition petitions President for a probe.
Jan 20, 2026 GMWU Gen. Sec. confirms all permits are now active.
