The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atiwa East, Hon. Ernest Owusu Ntim, has dismissed reports suggesting that he has been jailed, describing the claims as false, malicious propaganda aimed at derailing his efforts to combat illegal mining in the district.
In a release, the Atiwa East DCE stated that he remains at post and continues to discharge his official duties, insisting that no amount of misinformation will deter him from enforcing the law.
“Information about me being jailed is false and forms part of a deliberate propaganda campaign by my opponents. I worked in my office today and shall do the same tomorrow,” Hon. Owusu Ntim stated.
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According to the DCE, the misinformation is directly connected to his crackdown on illegal mining activities, which he says has attracted stiff resistance from individuals benefiting from environmental degradation.
“As the Atiwa DCE, my quest to salvage activities of illegal mining and its repelling effect on the environment has met stiff opposition, characterised by the spreading of falsehoods to demean my persona,” he explained.
He emphasised that such actions would not weaken the district’s resolve to protect lands, water bodies, and livelihoods in Atiwa East.
Hon. Owusu Ntim reaffirmed his commitment to President John Dramani Mahama’s agenda of resetting Ghana and fighting illegal mining, stating that the campaign against galamsey remains a top priority.
“These perpetuations of falsehoods will not deter us from working to bring President Mahama’s agenda of resetting and fighting illegal mining to the limelight,” he said.
He added that law enforcement within the district will continue without compromise, regardless of threats or propaganda.
The DCE also accused a named individual, Abeiku, of openly declaring intentions to undermine his leadership and derail the mission of the Atiwa East District Assembly.
“This mediocre propaganda has been championed by one Abeiku, who has openly declared that he will ensure my vision as DCE and the mission of the Assembly will be thwarted. But we will not relent,” he stressed.
Hon. Owusu Ntim disclosed that video footage of threats allegedly made against him by the said individual has been documented.
The Atiwa East DCE urged residents of the district to remain calm and disregard the false reports, assuring them that a comprehensive media engagement will soon be held to address all concerns.