Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has called on chiefs and kingmakers to rely on traditions, customs, and legal frameworks when resolving chieftaincy disputes, especially during the enstoolment of new chiefs.

According to him, many of these disputes, which often arise when stools become vacant, have escalated into violent clashes, leading to injuries, deaths, and destruction of property.

Speaking at a durbar of chiefs and people in Wemfie, Dormaa East District, the Minister cited the recent disturbances in Sampa, Jaman North District, as a stark reminder of the consequences of unresolved disputes.

On Wednesday, September 10, 2024, clashes in Sampa resulted in the death of a woman, injuries to several others, including police officers, and significant property damage. The Bono Regional Police Command later confirmed that calm had been restored and investigations were underway, describing the incident as “chieftaincy disturbances.”

Appeal for Peace and Order

Mr. Akwaboa expressed concern about the increasing security threats posed by such conflicts, warning that they undermine the peace and stability of the region.

"I will plead with the chiefs and kingmakers to use traditions, customs, and the available laws in the process to enstool new chiefs when seats become vacant," he urged.

He cautioned against violence, stressing the futility of internal conflicts.
"If we fight and kill ourselves, who will serve you (new chiefs) during your reign?" he questioned, appealing to traditional leaders to work towards sustaining harmony in their communities.

The Minister emphasized that peace is a prerequisite for growth and development.
"Without peace, there won't be growth. I appeal to all chiefs to help us so that we can also lobby for meaningful development deserving of the region," he said.

He assured the chiefs and people that the government remains committed to fulfilling its promises in key areas such as education, healthcare, road infrastructure, and youth employment.

Call for Professionalism in Local Governance

Earlier, during an engagement with staff of the Dormaa East District Assembly, Mr. Akwaboa warned against sabotage of government policies and projects, stressing that partisanship should not interfere with their duties.

"Party affiliations must not come to play in the discharge of your responsibilities," he cautioned.

He further reminded staff that the inflow of funds to the district depends largely on their performance and urged them to work together to support the leadership of the District Chief Executive, King Osei Owusu.

New Hospital Project for Wamfie

Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Dormaa East, Rachel Amma Owusuah, announced that she has secured funding for the construction of a hospital at Wamfie.

The project, she said, aims to improve access to quality healthcare and address the pressing medical needs of residents in the area.