A private citizen has filed a petition with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ). The petition demands an investigation of President John Mahama. It concerns alleged conflict of interest linked to the takeover of the Damang Mine by his brother, Ibrahim Mahama.
Mr. Ibrahim Mahama is a businessman and CEO of Engineers and Planners (E&P). In April 2026, Engineers and Planners officially took over the Damang Mine concession. This occurred after Gold Fields decided not to renew its mining lease. Before this, E&P had provided mining services to Gold Fields. The company then submitted a bid for the concession along with other local firms.
This petition comes at a time of heightened public interest in transparency. There are ongoing national discussions about governance in state-linked transactions. The mining sector is a core part of Ghana's economy. Any changes in its ownership structures, especially those involving prominent figures, draw close scrutiny. Data on mining concessions and procurement processes are often under public review.
The petitioner, Mr. Emmanuel Senyo Amekplenu, seeks a constitutional inquiry. He wants to investigate the circumstances of the transaction. He also wants to understand the President’s brother's involvement in the acquisition. Mr. Amekplenu invokes Article 218(a) of the 1992 Constitution. This article grants CHRAJ investigative powers. He also cites Article 284, which forbids public officers from creating conflicts between personal and official duties.
The petitioner's submission argues the transaction raises constitutional and ethical questions. This is because the alleged beneficiary is a close relative of the President. The President chairs Cabinet meetings where major state decisions are made. The petition highlights concerns of conflict of interest, abuse of executive influence, and potential use of public office for private family advantage. It quotes, "The takeover process received approval from Cabinet. Cabinet is chaired by the President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, whose biological brother, Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, is alleged to be the beneficiary."
The petition further suggests the President's alleged participation in Cabinet deliberations could be a conflict. This is because these discussions were connected to the transaction. It refers to a public assertion by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga in February 2025. He stated that Cabinet decisions are ultimately made by the President. These decisions are based on advice from Ministers. The petition also mentions allegations that Ibrahim Mahama financed the Vice-President's medical trip. He also made his private jet available for official travels. These include trips by the President and senior government officials. The petitioner argues these events raise questions about whether personal interests influenced state decisions.
Mr. Amekplenu asks CHRAJ to conduct a "full-scale investigation" into the transaction. He seeks a review of Cabinet memoranda, minutes, and declarations of interest. These documents are linked to the takeover. He urges CHRAJ to examine the use of Ibrahim Mahama’s private jet for presidential travel. The petitioner aims to determine if any public concessions or state benefits were connected. He also calls on CHRAJ to establish if any constitutional or ethical breaches occurred. If violations are proven, he asks for recommendations for sanctions or remedial measures.