Nana Kwamina Bentum II addressing the press
Some concerned chiefs and elders from the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area have criticised the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ellembelle, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for alleged incessant disrespect towards the Paramount Chief of the area, Awulae Amihere Kpanyinli III.
Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah, who is also the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, is being accused of alleged interference in local chieftaincy issues.
The chiefs said they could not fathom why the Ellembelle MP refuses to acknowledge Awulae Amihere Kpanyinli III as the gazetted Omanhene at durbars, opting instead to recognise a rival, non-gazetted claimant to the stool who is reportedly under a court injunction.
They have, therefore, called on President John Mahama to call Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah to order and stop him from meddling in the chieftaincy issues of Eastern Nzema.
Addressing a press conference in Takoradi under the theme, “Reclaiming Our Heritage, Protecting Stool Lands, Exposing Interference in Chieftaincy Matters,” the chiefs claimed that because of the ongoing chieftaincy dispute, the police have taken over the Omanhene’s palace, making it difficult for Awulae Amihere Kpanyinli III to enter.
The Divisional Chief of Salman in Ellembelle, Nana Kwamina Bentum II, said, “As sub-chiefs, we expected the MP to help resolve the chieftaincy issues, not to side with one faction.”
He noted that the peace of Eastern Nzema is too precious to be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency and the reckless abuse of public authority.
He added that the disregard for established traditional authorities and the alleged misuse of political influence in chieftaincy matters have become a source of grave concern.
“The resulting atmosphere of tension, fear, and insecurity threatens the very foundations of peaceful coexistence and community development,” he said.
“Eastern Nzema must not be allowed to descend into a theatre of avoidable conflict because of the ambitions of a few individuals,” he pointed out.
He told journalists that the dignity of the chieftaincy institution must be protected against manipulation by individuals seeking political advantage or control over traditional communities.
“We are alarmed by reports of persons allegedly intruding into traditional jurisdictions and engaging in activities that have heightened tensions in various communities,” he added.
Other speakers, including Nana Nwia Etease VI, Chief of Baku and Head of the Gyaase, said political actors have become involved in disputes in ways that risk aggravating divisions rather than promoting peace.
Nana Morkeh Kpanyinli IV, Chief of Ngalekyi, also emphasised that political officeholders must understand that their positions are held in trust for the people and not for particular factions.
From Emmanuel Opoku, Takoradi