The Ghana Association of Assembly Members (GAAM) has strongly condemned the killing of Samuel Danquah, Assembly Member for Aboabo, who was allegedly shot dead by soldiers during a violent clash between residents of Mpatuam and security personnel guarding Asanko Mines in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, also left two other residents injured and receiving treatment for gunshot wounds.
According to eyewitness accounts, Samuel Danquah was attempting to mediate between a grieving family and mine officials after tensions erupted over the alleged killing of a miner by security personnel at the company’s concession the previous day.
The confrontation escalated into chaos, with soldiers reportedly opening fire on the crowd, fatally shooting the 45-year-old assembly member.
In a statement addressing the tragedy, Ackah Nelson Frank, President of GAAM, described the death as a devastating blow to local governance and democracy.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the chiefs, and people of Aboabo, as well as the entire Amansie West District.
“Samuel Danquah was not only a representative of his people but a dedicated servant of peace who sought to calm tensions. His death is unacceptable and must not go unpunished,” Ackah Nelson Frank declared.
He stressed that the Association will not rest until justice is served: “This is not only about one man. This is about the safety and dignity of every elected assembly member across Ghana. If an assembly member can be shot dead in broad daylight while mediating a conflict, then our democracy and local governance are under serious threat.”
The GAAM President further noted that the Association views the incident as a test case for accountability in the use of force by security agencies.
“We cannot allow impunity to prevail. We demand a swift, transparent, and independent investigation, and we expect government and the security agencies to demonstrate their commitment to justice by prosecuting those responsible without fear or favour.”
He urged residents of Mpatuam, Aboabo, and surrounding communities to remain calm despite the grief and anger that has gripped the area.
“We understand the pain, we feel the anger, but we call on the people to channel their frustrations into lawful means. Violence will not honour Samuel Danquah’s memory—justice will.”
Ackah Nelson Frank also appealed to Parliament, civil society organisations, and traditional authorities to lend their voices to the call for justice, emphasizing that such tragedies must never be repeated.
“GAAM stands firmly with the family of our late colleague. We will walk with them through this dark moment, and we will continue to press for reforms to ensure that no assembly member suffers this fate again,” he added.
