The chiefs of Digare, Tola, Datuko, and Biung in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region have strongly dissociated themselves from the activities and recent pronouncements of the Talensi Mining Communities Initiative (TAMCI).
In a press statement, the chiefs said they were “deeply shocked and disappointed” to have their names cited in TAMCI’s recent press release without their knowledge or consent.
They demanded that TAMCI immediately retract what they described as a “false representation” and render an unqualified apology.
The chiefs reminded the public, mining companies, and stakeholders that in the Talensi Traditional Area, there is only one Paramount Chief—Tongraan Kugbilsong Nanlebegtang, who also serves as President of the Talensi Traditional Council.
This council, they emphasized, is the only legitimate and lawfully mandated body to represent the collective interests of the people, particularly in matters relating to mining engagements.
According to the chiefs, the Talensi Traditional Council, working in collaboration with the District Assembly, has already drafted a Social Responsibility Agreement with mining companies, which is nearing finalization.
They warned that no advocacy group or association had the authority to usurp this role or attempt to enter into separate agreements.
“Allowing such practices would only create confusion and open the door for countless groups to make competing claims, to the detriment of unity and orderly development,” the chiefs stated.
They further cautioned TAMCI to desist from what they described as divisive acts intended to sow disaffection among traditional leaders, insisting that such conduct is inimical to peace, cohesion, and progress in Talensi.
The chiefs reaffirmed their loyalty to the Paramount Chief and the Talensi Traditional Council and urged the public to disregard TAMCI’s claims and pronouncements.
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