FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, 6th October 2025
UPDN CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON MEDIA COALITION AGAINST ILLEGAL MINING CONVENER AND DEMANDS IMMEDIATE APOLOGY FROM MR. STAN DOGBE
The United Press for Development Network (UPDN) has noted with deep concern the recent verbal and social media attacks by Mr. Stan Dogbe, Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations, against the Convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining (also known as the Ghana Coalition Against Illegal Mining) Dr. Ken. Ashigbey.
We find it extremely unfortunate and unacceptable that Mr. Dogbe would attempt to politicize a matter of national interest by tagging the Convener as a sympathizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) simply because of his objective stance on the ongoing galamsey menace.
The Coalition’s work has always been rooted in patriotism, professionalism, and the defense of Ghana’s environmental and developmental interests. It is neither politically motivated nor driven by partisan allegiance. The Coalition’s sole mission remains clear: to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure responsible governance in the fight against illegal mining, regardless of which political party is in power .
UPDN therefore strongly disagrees with Mr. Dogbe’s comments and actions , and we consider them a direct attack on media freedom, civic activism, and national integrity. Such attacks have no place in a democratic society that values open dialogue and accountability.
We demand an immediate, unqualified apology from Mr. Stan Dogbe to the Convener and the entire Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining. We further urge him to cease all social media attacks and defamatory remarks directed at individuals or organizations who offer fair, constructive, and objective criticism of the less-than-a-year-old John Mahama and NDC administration.
The fight against illegal mining is a national duty, not a partisan contest. UPDN stands firmly with all journalists, civil society advocates, and patriotic citizens who continue to speak truth to power and defend Ghana’s environment from greed, pollution, and destruction.
About UPDN:
United Press for Development Network (UPDN) is an organization dedicated to promoting press freedom, media development, good and transparent governance, economic, environmental/climate change and sustainable development across Africa. Through capacity building, advocacy, and networking, UPDN empowers journalists and media organizations to uphold professional standards, foster governmental accountability, and advance public interest.
Signed
Kelvin Malor
(National Organizer)
024-599-5541
David Albert Quainoo
(South Korea Coordinator)
+82-10-2117-4780
Rev. Betty Boafo
(Secretary)
024-487-0055
Eric Nana Prekoh
(Media Relations Coordinator)
024-646-0428
William Hayford Mintah
(Central Region Coordinator)
024-476-6538
Frank Heymann
(International Relations Coordinator)
0245414948
Rev. Kofi Asante Mensah
(President)
Tel: 024-469-0262
Office: 0302-965-325
