Former MP for Manso Nkwanta, Joseph Albert Quarm, has challenged the former Minister of Environment, Prof Kwabena Frimpong Boateng to provide evidence for the allegations levelled against him.
According to Mr Quarm, the claim that he assisted some Chinese nationals in galamsey operations is a blatant lie.
He contended that, contrary to the allegation, he is an ardent advocate against illegal mining in the country, and reiterated that he does not own a single concession in his name.
“I was the lead advocate against illegal mining and my aim was to make sure that at least I convince appropriate quarters to make sure that we create more small-scale designated areas for illegal miners to apply, to have legal small-scale permits to work without destroying the environment. This is what I did.
“So right now he’s saying that I have a lot of concessions and sometimes I sell some at the cost of GH₵200,000. He who alleges must prove; he must come with documents bearing my name that I, Quarm Joseph Albert, has ABC large-scale concessions in my district,” he challenged while contributing to a discussion on Newsfile on Saturday, April 22.
In a report written by Prof Frimpong Boateng to the Chief of Staff, the president and the police, it was indicated that some government officials were actively involved in galamsey also known as illegal mining.
Mr. Quarm was named in the list and was accused of using his role as a member of the Minerals Commission board to obtain and sell concessions.