Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has urged the public to remain measured in discussions over the Damang mining concession, cautioning against turning the matter into a partisan dispute.

Addressing journalists during a leadership media briefing on Friday, May 22, Mr Ayariga said public commentary on the issue had failed to take into account key background developments, including what he described as an earlier “no objection” position communicated during the previous administration of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

According to him, the original concession holder had initially signalled its intention to withdraw from the mine and requested approval for a preferred Ghanaian operator to assume control of the concession.

He explained that the company later reversed its position following the surge in international gold prices, but government proceeded based on commitments and processes that had already been initiated.

Mr Ayariga maintained that Ghana must focus on strengthening local participation in the mining sector by creating opportunities for indigenous investors to own and manage major mining assets, arguing that such a move would help retain greater economic value within the country.

He further stressed that the issue should be examined objectively and not through political lenses, insisting that decisions must be guided by fairness irrespective of political ties or family connections.