NDC Chairman defends Abanga, Yami amidst galamsey allegations

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman for Asikuma Odoben Brakwa, Mubarak Watara, has defended party executives Mr. Yakubu Abanga Alhassan and Mr. Joseph Yamin amidst galamsey allegations, describing the allegations as unsubstantiated and potentially damaging to the party’s image.

In a press release dated July 18, 2025, Chairman Watara came to the defense of the two high-ranking party executives, who have been accused of involvement in galamsey activities.

According to Chairman Watara, “These allegations, while serious in nature, appear to be unsubstantiated and potentially damaging to the image and fortunes of both the individuals involved and the great NDC party as a whole.” He emphasized that Mr. Abanga and Mr. Yamin have responded to the allegations with composure and firmness, welcoming investigations and willing to cooperate with the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) or any investigative agency.

Mr. Abanga, in particular, has stated publicly that while he holds a lawful small-scale mining license, he is not currently operating any mining activity. Chairman Watara noted that Mr. Abanga’s public invitation to accusers to provide evidence speaks to his innocence and character. “If we allow high-ranking, hard-working, and morally upright individuals within our own ranks to be publicly condemned without evidence, we risk eroding the very foundation of fairness, sweat, and justice upon which our party has been built,” Chairman Watara said.

The NDC Chairman also pointed out that the video circulating on social media, which appears to form the basis of the allegations, has been discredited on multiple grounds. Mr. Abanga has highlighted deliberate distortions and falsehoods in the video, including the misrepresentation of names and mobile money numbers. No concrete evidence has been produced linking either individual to illegal mining operations.

The Daily Graphic reported that the party’s National Organizer, Mr. Joseph Yamin, welcomed the investigation and expressed confidence that the truth will be revealed.

“We are committed to cooperating with the authorities to clear our names and ensure that the truth is revealed,” Mr. Yamin said, according to the Daily Graphic article titled “Galamsey Allegations: NDC Leaders Call for Calm and Due Process” on July 19, 2025. The article highlights the party’s concerns about the potential damage to its image and the need for caution in handling such allegations.

The Attorney-General’s referral of the matter to EOCO has been welcomed by both party executives, and Chairman Watara believes that due process will vindicate them and expose the falsehoods being peddled. “We must defend our own when they stand on the side of truth, not only for their sake but for the integrity and unity of the party,” he said.

As the investigation unfolds, the NDC is urging its supporters to remain calm and confident in the party’s leadership.