Some concerned chiefs and elders from the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area in the Ellembelle constituency of the Western Region have criticized the Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Emmanuel Kofi Armah-Buah, for the incessant disrespect he allegedly shows to the Paramount Chief of the area, Awulae Amihere Kpanyili.
They have also accused the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources of alleged interference in local chieftaincy issues.
The chiefs said they could not fathom why the Ellembelle MP refuses to acknowledge Awulae Amihere Kpanyili as the gazetted Omanhene at durbars, opting instead to recognize 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 Armah-Buah to order and stop him from meddling in the chieftaincy issues of Eastern Nzema.
Addressing a press conference in Takoradi on Friday 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 Kpainyli 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.
” 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 emphasized that political officeholders must understand that their positions are held in trust for the people and not for particular factions.
