…Over “Unsavory Comments” Amidst E&P Standoff
Azumah Resources Ghana has publicly distanced itself from outspoken social commentator Bright Simons, vehemently rejecting his recent “unsavory comments” regarding the ongoing dispute between Azumah Resources and Engineers & Planners (E&P).
The move comes as Azumah seeks to “protect the integrity of the ongoing resolution process” with E&P.
In a strongly worded statement signed by John Kaku Mason, Aide to the Chairman and Spokesperson for the Shareholders of Azumah Resources, the company made it clear that Bright Simons does not represent or speak for Azumah Resources Ghana in any capacity.
“While we acknowledge Mr. Simons’ constitutional right to express personal views on matters of public concern, we wish to categorically state that Mr. Bright Simons does not represent, act on behalf of, or speak for the Shareholders or Directors of Azumah Resources Ghana in any capacity,” the statement read.
Mason emphasized that Simons’ public commentary is solely his “personal opinion and should not be construed, implied, or interpreted as reflective of the official position, intentions, or legal standing of Azumah Resources or its Shareholders.”
Azumah Resources confirmed that it is currently engaged in “confidential, good-faith negotiations” with Engineers & Planners (E&P). The objective, according to Mason, is to achieve a “constructive and mutually acceptable resolution to the present impasse.”
These crucial discussions are reportedly being conducted within legal frameworks, commercial norms, and with the consultation of “appropriate regulatory and ministerial bodies.”
In line with directives from the sector’s Minister, Azumah Resources has urged all media houses, analysts, commentators, and third parties to “exercise discretion and refrain from speculative or misleading reportage.”
The company fears that such reporting could “prejudice or distort the dialogue underway” and has called on the public and media to rely solely on authorized spokespersons for official statements.
Azumah Resources also expressed regret to the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) for its “unwarranted and inaccurate inclusion” in the public discourse surrounding the matter.
Clarifying EBID’s involvement, Mason stated that representatives from Azumah Resources and E&P visited EBID’s offices in Lomé, Togo, in 2023 to assess the Bank’s potential support for the transaction.
He explained that EBID “expressed indicative interest, contingent on its internal credit appraisal and Board approval.” Mason stressed that “any extrapolations beyond this context are both inappropriate and unauthorized.”
Azumah Resources concluded by reaffirming its “unwavering commitment to a professional, transparent, and responsible resolution of this matter,” adding that it remains “fully aligned with the broader interest of the Republic of Ghana and all stakeholders involved.”