The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has called on Members of Parliament and District Chief Executives in the North, South, and Central Tongu Districts to work closely with traditional authorities to fast-track development across the Tongu enclave.

According to the minister, communities where political leaders and traditional rulers operate in unity and mutual respect stand a better chance of attracting sustainable development.

The regional minister made the call during the annual Klokpo Festival of the Chiefs and people of Bakpa in the South Tongu District.

He stressed that traditional leaders remain critical stakeholders in governance and development, noting that collaboration between elected officials and chiefs would ensure that development projects reflect the real needs of the people.

“Development thrives where there is peace, unity, and cooperation among leaders. MPs and DCEs must see traditional authorities as partners, not spectators,” he stated.

The Klokpo Festival, instituted to promote peace and unity among the people of Bakpa, also serves as a platform for cultural reflection, community mobilisation, and development planning. It celebrates the shared ancestry and rich heritage of the Bakpa people while rallying support for development initiatives in the traditional area.

Speaking at the event, the Mankralo of Bakpa, Togbe Kofi Tosu, commended the government for efforts at stabilising the national economy but appealed for urgent attention to the community’s pressing development needs.

He called for the rehabilitation of roads, completion of staff bungalows for nurses, improvement in educational infrastructure, and the extension of potable water to the community.

The festival attracted chiefs, opinion leaders, residents, and dignitaries from across the Tongu districts, reaffirming Bakpa’s commitment to peace, unity, and development