Nana Kwesi Agyeman IX, Paramount Chief, Lower Dixcove and Obrempon Hima Dekyi XVI, Paramount Chief, Upper Dixcove
The Grand Durbars scheduled to crown the 2026 Kundum Festivals of the chiefs and people of both Lower and Upper Dixcove in the Ahanta Traditional Area of the Western Region, have been cancelled.
The decision follows a meeting of the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC) held on Monday, August 17, 2026, at the Western Regional Coordinating Council in Sekondi.
The meeting was convened as part of efforts to facilitate the successful celebration of the 2026 Dixcove Kundum Festival.
However, the meeting could not arrive at an amicable agreement that would provide the necessary conditions for the peaceful conduct of the two grand durbars simultaneously.
In view of the prevailing circumstances and the potential risk to public safety, peace and security, the REGSEC, as a preventive measure, resolved that the two durbars scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2026 should not be held.
According to the REGSEC, the decision is purely on public safety and security grounds and not intended to undermine the cultural significance of the Kundum festival.
A statement issued by the REGSEC and signed by its chairman, Joseph Nelson, who is also the Regional Minister, advised all stakeholders and the general public to take note of the decision and refrain from organising or participating in activities intended to climax the 2026 Kundum Festivals in Lower and Upper Dixcove.
The statement noted that the Western Regional Coordinating Council acknowledges the importance of the festival to the people and appreciates the disappointment that may arise from its cancellation.
“Nevertheless, the safety and security of residents and visitors remain paramount, and the Council cannot support the holding of the events where the prevailing circumstances could potentially result in confrontation, injury, destruction of property or a breakdown of public order.
“The Council therefore calls on all parties to exercise restraint and respect for the decision, and to refrain from any actions or statements that could heighten tensions within the communities,” the statement stressed.
From Emmanuel Opoku, Takoradi
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