Following Boasiako's conviction, NPP general secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong told reporters: ''The fight against illegal mining cannot become credible only when it targets political opponents in respect of whom evidence of wrongdoing does not exist."

He alleged that the judge had ignored "clear evidence" that would have exonerated Boasiako.

Prosecutors say the NPP politician had allowed two individuals, Henry Okum and Michael Gyedu Ayisi, to undertake mining activities on the Akonta Mining's concession without approval from the minister of lands and natural resources.

Environmental campaigners welcomed Monday's conviction, saying it will serve as a deterrent to other politicians and businessmen financing the activities of illegal miners.

"It sends a strong signal that accountability is indispensable if Ghana is to protect its forests, rivers and other natural resources," Adib Saani, executive director of the Jatikay Centre for Human Security and Peace Building, said.

However, Frimpong said the NPP's lawyers had started the process of challenging Boasiako's conviction.

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