The chieftaincy institution is still relevant - Chiefs

Accra, April 26, GNA - The Eastern Regional House of Chiefs has declared that, the Chieftaincy institution was still relevant now, as in the past.

It has therefore advised those calling for its abolition, not to be swayed by the chieftaincy disputes but look at the stabilising roles chiefs were playing in the country's socio-economic development. The declaration was made in a statement signed by the President of the House, Daasebre Oti Boateng in Koforidua.

The House pointed out that "just as nobody is calling for the disbandment of family or political parties as institutions which are also saddled with disputes; the chieftaincy institution should be left alone to continue with its age old role of ensuring peace in society". It said instead of calling for its abolition, the institution should be given a more involving role to play in the democratic process. The statement said chiefs were regarded as fathers in the society, and held in high esteem, that explained why presidential aspirants and politicians visit the palace of traditional rulers to seek their blessing and tap on their wisdom.

The House noted that if chiefs were debarred from participating in party politics as stipulated in the constitution, then they would welcome the creation of a second chamber to allow them to participate in the legislative process, to enhance national development.

Or alternatively, the statement added, arrangements could be made for a quota to be reserved for chiefs in Ghana's Parliament, as pertaining in the metropolitan, municipal and district Assemblies.

"This, the chiefs believe, would protect their fundamental human rights," it said.

However, the House expressed its concern at the recent spate of violence associated with chieftaincy disputes in certain parts of the country and condemned such violent acts.

The statement said chiefs in the region had decided to distance themselves from such untoward acts; and called on all stakeholders to be guided by the rules and regulations governing the institution. "The era when chiefs were destooled by the simple removal of their sandals and through other violent means are over," it added. The House pointed out that national security and all other security agencies owed Ghanaians a duty to maintain law and order, therefore any criminality, whether chieftaincy inclined, political or whatever remained a crime and must be dealt with according to law to serve as a deterrent.