Hot SourceThe United Press for Development Network (UPDN) has condemned the recent verbal and social media attacks launched by Mr. Stan Dogbe, Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations, against Dr. Ken Ashigbey, Convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining (also known as the Ghana Coalition Against Illegal Mining).
In a statement issued on Monday, the media advocacy group described Mr. Dogbe’s comments as “unwarranted, unprofessional, and deeply concerning,” insisting that his actions undermine media freedom in Ghana and the collective national effort to fight galamsey.
According to UPDN, it is “extremely unfortunate and unacceptable” for a senior government official to attempt to politicise a matter of national concern by tagging Dr. Ashigbey as a sympathiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) simply because of his objective comments on the devastating effects of illegal mining.
“The Coalition’s work has always been rooted in patriotism, professionalism, and the defence of Ghana’s environmental and developmental interests. It is neither politically motivated nor driven by partisan allegiance,” the statement read.
UPDN emphasised that the Coalition’s core 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.
The Network said Mr. Dogbe’s comments amount to a direct attack on press freedom, civic activism, and national integrity, warning that such behaviour has no place in a democracy that upholds accountability and open dialogue.
“UPDN strongly disagrees with Mr. Dogbe’s comments and considers them an affront to the spirit of responsible governance,” the statement said. “We therefore demand an immediate, unqualified apology from him to Dr. Ashigbey and the entire Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining.”
The group also urged Mr. Dogbe to desist from social media attacks and defamatory remarks against individuals or organisations offering fair 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 said. “We stand 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
The United Press for Development Network (UPDN) is a pan-African organisation dedicated to promoting press freedom, media development, good governance, environmental protection, and sustainable development.
Through advocacy, capacity building, and strategic partnerships, UPDN empowers journalists and media institutions to uphold professional ethics, strengthen accountability, and advance public interest reporting across Africa.
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