Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Nominee, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has assured the Appointments Committee of Parliament of his unwavering commitment to protecting Ghana’s interests in the ongoing Cassius Mining dispute. Addressing concerns about potential conflicts of interest during his vetting on January 13, 2025, Dr. Ayine outlined his qualifications, experience, and dedication to upholding the constitutional mandate of his office.
Conflict of Interest Concerns Addressed
Dr. Ayine, a legal expert with over three decades of experience and a PhD in Law from Stanford University, responded to questions about his previous representation of Cassius Mining Ltd, an Australian gold mining company. He clarified that while he had represented the company in the past, he is no longer its legal counsel.
“I have been instructed previously by Cassius Mining. I filed pleadings in the High Court in Bolgatanga together with my junior partner, Mr. Gordon Tamakloe. … I want to put it on record that I’m no longer Cassius Mining’s lawyer,” Dr. Ayine stated.
He emphasized his understanding of constitutional provisions against conflicts of interest, pledging his allegiance to the Republic of Ghana. 
“As Attorney-General of the Republic, I will be the Republic’s lawyer. … I will not, in any manner whatsoever, compromise the interests of the Republic of Ghana,” he assured the Committee.
Experience and Track Record
Dr. Ayine highlighted his accomplishments as Deputy Attorney-General under Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong, particularly his role in safeguarding the Ministry’s reputation for integrity.
“For four years, we handled that ministry in such a way that the U.S. government described the Attorney-General’s office as a corruption-free zone,” he stated.
He expressed confidence in handling the Cassius Mining case, leveraging his familiarity with the London Court of International Arbitration, where the case is being heard.
“If they are before the London Court of International Arbitration, I’m quite familiar with that tribunal. I will put in the measures that will ensure that the interests of the Republic are not compromised,” Dr. Ayine said.
Background of the Cassius Mining Dispute
Cassius Mining has lodged a $277 million claim against Ghana at the London Court of International Arbitration. The dispute centers on the Ghanaian government’s refusal to renew Cassius’ prospecting licence for a gold project in the Talensi district.
The company alleges that this decision deprived it of the full value and profits of the project. While Cassius initially secured a two-year prospecting licence in 2016, the government later argued that the licence was invalid as it had not been ratified under the Constitution.
Subsequent legal battles ensued, with the Ghanaian High Court ruling against Cassius pursuing international arbitration.
Cassius Open to Settlement
Cassius Mining’s Managing Director, David Chidlow, has expressed the company’s willingness to resolve the matter through arbitration or settlement.
“We look forward to progressing the case and achieving a successful outcome for the benefit of shareholders and the company,” he stated.
Next Steps and Assurances
Dr. Ayine has pledged to adopt proactive measures to safeguard Ghana’s interests in the dispute while adhering to constitutional mandates. His track record and experience are expected to bolster Ghana’s position in resolving the matter.
This case underscores the importance of legal precision, accountability, and transparency in managing Ghana’s natural resources and investor relations.
