Akropong chieftaincy row deepens –MCE calls for unity

Rising tensions over the protracted Akropong chieftaincy dispute are sparking renewed concern among residents and development stakeholders, with fears mounting that the situation could degenerate into a serious security and social crisis if not swiftly resolved.

The dispute, which has lingered for years, continues to deepen divisions within the Akuapem traditional area, particularly between factions aligned with the queen mother and opposing groups.

Accusations of entrenched positions, disregard for customary processes, and attempts to bypass traditional dispute resolution mechanisms have further complicated efforts toward peace.

Amid the growing unease, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Abuakwa South, Nana Adu Sarpong Addo Aikins popularly known as Addo-Aikins Jr. has called for calm and urged all parties to pursue internal resolution through established traditional and legal channels.

In a statement shared on his Facebook page on Sunday, the MCE emphasised that Ghana’s chieftaincy framework, as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution and the Chieftaincy Act, clearly mandates that such disputes fall within the jurisdiction of the Regional House of Chiefs, particularly its Judicial Committee.

He noted that these bodies remain the appropriate authorities to adjudicate matters affecting paramountcies such as Akuapem.

Providing background to the dispute, the MCE explained that the current controversy stems from disagreements during the process leading to the installation of the Okuapehene, including claims that due customary procedures were not followed.

However, he indicated that available records show earlier legal challenges, especially those initiated by the late Abrewatia Lily Agyeman, over her alleged exclusion from the nomination process were addressed by the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs.

The Judicial Committee, he said, subsequently ordered a restart of the process in accordance with tradition.

Following that ruling, the nomination and installation processes reportedly proceeded under the supervision of recognized kingmakers and traditional authorities, but the queen mother’s faction, however, is said to have withdrawn cooperation and later formed a pressure group challenging the legitimacy of the installed Okuapehene.

Key issues raised by the opposing faction include disputes over royal lineage, the role of the queen mother in nominations, adherence to customary practices, and the conduct of traditional rites such as confinement and selection processes.

On the other hand, proponents of the installation insist that all customary requirements were duly observed citing the Akan chieftaincy principle of “capacity,” which determines who is qualified to perform specific traditional roles.

According to traditional authorities involved, the late Abrewatia, recognized as the legitimate family head with the authority to nominate, led the process appropriately.

The nominee, they argue, satisfied all lineage requirements, was vetted and approved by a majority of kingmakers, and subsequently underwent the necessary enstoolment and installation rites.

The installation, though adjusted in line with COVID-19 restrictions at the time, reportedly involved all key divisional chiefs, an event some described as an unprecedented show of unity within the traditional council. The Okuapehene has since been officially gazetted.

Despite these developments, tensions continue to simmer, with concerns growing over the involvement of aggrieved youth groups and the potential for unrest. Analysts warn that any escalation could trigger state intervention, an outcome that may undermine traditional governance structures.

There are now renewed calls for all parties to return to the appropriate chieftaincy dispute resolution mechanisms, particularly the Regional House of Chiefs, to seek a final and binding resolution.

Traditional leaders, legal experts, and concerned stakeholders are urging restraint, dialogue, and adherence to Akuapem customs to restore harmony and protect development in the area.

As the impasse persists, many believe that only a decisive, lawful, and culturally grounded resolution can bridge the divide and secure lasting peace in Okuapem.

 

 

 

For more news, join The Chronicle Newspaper channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBSs55E50UqNPvSOm2z

 

The post Akropong chieftaincy row deepens –MCE calls for unity appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.

Read Full Story