Government has stated it is completely disinterested in the Ga chieftaincy dispute. Rather, it would ensure peace and security is maintained among the people. Deputy Information Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said this on Friday when he responded to an allegation by the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Tawiah III, that government had acted to breed trouble. The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (REGSEC) on Wednesday August 5, issued a directive that the feuding factions restricted the celebration this month to their various communities. The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Tawiah III, has described government’s supposed intervention as provocative and disrespectful, expressing disgust at the locking up of the traditional home where some of the Homowo rituals are supposed to be performed. A spokesman Nii Boi Abbey told Joy News the directive confirms their fears that King Tackie Tawiah would face a lot of difficulty under the Mills administration. The Oto Ga faction has however welcomed the directive insisting that government has acted rightly. But responding to the issues, Mr Ablakwa said government is pursuing what he called “an attitude of positive neutrality.” “We are not going to take sides in all chieftaincy issues that are ongoing. What is happening now is a position of positive neutrality where the government is not preventing anybody from going ahead with the celebrations,” he told Joy News Steve Anti. “It is only ensuring that life and property is protected. Government is not going to make any proclamation as to which chief we recognise or do not recognise. It is none of our business. It is only to ensure that life and property is protected.” He said government was also compelled to issue the directive because the NDC government “[holds] it true that the chieftaincy institution is a very important institution. “It is part of our legacy and our heritage and we will not undermine it,” he added. The Homowo festival has suffered age-long disputes with violent clashes reported in past years. Meanwhile the REGSEC maintains its action would ensure a peaceful co-existence and harmony among Gas in the city. Story by Fiifi Koomson/Myjoyonline.com/Ga