Modernise chieftaincy institution - Rev

Techiman(B/A), April 7, GNA - The Reverend Robert Richard Brobbey, Brong-Ahafo Regional Chairman of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana has called for the scientific modernization of the chieftaincy institution to respond to modern challenges.

Addressing the opening of the 42nd Presbytery of the Church at Techiman at the weekend, Rev Brobbey noted that the institution had of late come under attack over its relevance in modern governance. He acknowledged that chieftaincy was an old institution that played an immeasurable role in the cultural lives of the people and appealed to traditional rulers to boldly identify symptoms that might be affecting the institutions.

He also appealed to the traditional rulers to settle disputes among themselves in a pragmatic manner to avoid conflicts that might lead to the destruction of life and property.

The conference is under the theme, "Let us go on to maturity", and was attended by more than 150 delegates drawn from 28 districts and one mission field in the region.

Rev Brobbey welcomed the re-introduction of religious and moral education in the school syllabus and asked teachers to see this as an opportunity and duty to mould children's character.

On the forthcoming general election, Rev Brobbey entreated politicians to address issues and make realistic promises to deepen the democratic dispensation of the country.

Mr Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, Regional Minister, asked the church to educate members on the need to pay tax as their contribution to national development.

"Every nation can only develop when its citizens honour their tax obligations," he stressed and advised that payment of taxes must not be seen as some sort of punishment by the state.

Mr Baffour-Awuah commended the Church for its contributions towards the political, social and economic development of the country. Nana Kwame Owusu, Ankobeahene of Techiman Traditional Area, who presided recounted the role of the Presby church in inculcating discipline in members and urged the church to spearhead the fight against indiscipline in society.

Two newly-trained ministers of the church including a first female in the region, were later ordained.