By:Yesmeen Abubakar Tetteh
Member of Parliament for Asawase spoke about the contentious Songhor Salt Mines agreement, urging colleagues to support mediation between the company, Electrochem Ghana Limited (EGL), and local communities. The MP for Asawase Muntaka Mubarak acknowledged that some individuals are benefiting from the current arrangement but emphasized the need to address the concerns of those who are not.
Mr Muntaka quoted a former US Vice President, saying that people whose livelihoods depend on not understanding the issue will resist and engage in vandalism and distraction. Mr mubarak expressed concern about the challenges in convincing these individuals that the project will benefit the entire country.
He suggested that the two MPs from the affected area Ada, team up with the company to mediate and find solutions. They noted that the company has agreed to assist the local communities and that dialogue can lead to more benefits.
He emphasized that Parliament has already ratified the agreement, and it’s essential to see it through while addressing the concerns of the local communities.
Muntaka cautioned against throwing the company “under the bus” due to agitation and emphasized the need for leadership and adherence to the constitution and laws. He urged colleagues to explain the benefits of the project to the people and address their concerns.
