The leadership of customers affected by the now-defunct Menzgold Company Limited has approached former President John Mahama, seeking his assistance in recovering their funds that remain locked within the illicit gold dealership and investment firm.
These customers have endured significant hardships since the company’s closure in 2018, with 217 individuals losing their lives and some experiencing blindness and mental health challenges as a result.
Now, these customers are appealing to the former President to guide their efforts in securing financial aid from the government to alleviate their dire circumstances.
During a meeting held at Mr. Mahama’s Cantonments office on Friday, Mr. Fred Forson, the group’s leader and spokesperson, passionately implored Mr. Mahama, emphasizing the gravity of their situation and their urgent need for a government bailout.
“We believe that when Your Excellency adds your voice, it will help. Where we are now, we need a bailout from the state, so we humbly call on you to lead us in calling on the state to give us a bailout plan. Because life is very, very unbearable for us”, he cried out.
The Menzgold customers convener added, “The state has wasted over four years on this small matter. There was no action. I am sure everybody will attest that it was the resilience of the customers — we kept on pressing, pressing — and now the Attorney-General has moved the matter from the lower court to the High Court. However, the civil aspect, which is the retrieval of our money, is still pending.”
President Mahama extended his condolences to the victims, characterizing it as one of the most unfortunate incidents in the nation’s history. He believed that such fraudulent schemes often find success due to the government’s inadequate regulatory oversight, making it responsible for citizens who become victims.
Additionally, he questioned why the government had not yet taken control of the company’s accounts, seized its assets, and conducted auctions to allocate a portion of the proceeds toward reimbursing customer investments.
In response to the appeal from Menzgold’s customers, President Mahama pledged his commitment to support their cause and amplify awareness of their plight. He urged the government to be transparent and provide comprehensive information regarding its efforts to address the situation.
With the backing of the former President, the customers hold hope that they can retrieve their funds and recover from the losses they have endured.