A private citizen has filed a petition with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), demanding an investigation into President John Mahama concerning allegations of conflict of interest. The petition centers on the takeover of the Damang Mine by the President’s brother, Ibrahim Mahama, who is the CEO of Engineers and Planners (E&P).
Background of the Damang Mine Transaction
The Damang Mine concession was officially transferred in April 2026 from Gold Fields to Engineers and Planners Limited (E&P), a Ghanaian-owned firm. This handover occurred after Gold Fields decided not to renew its mining lease for the site.
E&P had previously been a service provider for Gold Fields at the mine. Following the lease non-renewal, E&P submitted a bid for the concession, competing with other local companies.
The Petition to CHRAJ
The petitioner, Mr. Emmanuel Senyo Amekplenu, is formally requesting CHRAJ to conduct a constitutional inquiry. The inquiry aims to scrutinize the circumstances surrounding the Damang Mine transaction and the specific involvement of President Mahama’s brother in its acquisition.
Mr. Amekplenu is invoking Article 218(a) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which empowers CHRAJ with investigative authority. Additionally, the petition references Article 284, which prohibits public officials from situations where their personal interests conflict with their official duties.
Allegations of Conflict of Interest and Abuse of Influence
The petition argues that the transaction raises significant constitutional and ethical concerns. These concerns stem from the fact that the alleged beneficiary of the takeover is a close relative of the President. The President chairs Cabinet meetings, where critical state decisions are made.
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