Chieftaincy will be a threat to Ghana’s development if our chiefs continue endorsing political parties and candidates – CenPOA

The Centre for Public Opinion and Awareness (CenPOA) has expressed concern about our traditional rulers’ endorsements of political parties and candidates.

Executive Director Michael Donyina Mensah stated that, while the republic’s constitution prohibits chiefs from endorsing candidates, the practice has become widespread, particularly in the upcoming December 7 general elections.

He warned that if this trend is not addressed, it will have serious consequences for national unity, cohesion, and stability.

In an interview with Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s Frontline, Mr. Donyina Mensah emphasised the importance of our chiefs and traditional rulers avoiding partisan politics.

In his view, it is also unfortunate that some of our chiefs are endorsing politicians, which the constitution has deemed unconstitutional.

He lamented that the involvement of politicians and political actors in chieftaincy disputes across the country, including the long-running Bawku conflict, has made it more difficult to resolve.

"This election has seen unprecedented levels of endorsements from our chiefs. It is unconstitutional for them to support political parties and candidates, but they have ignored the Constitution in doing so. If we want to move forward at the desired rate, we must first ensure that chieftaincy does not exist in our political space.

Europe, for example, had a system that allowed monarchs to rule, but in modern times, these traditional rulers no longer have the same exclusive powers that they once did. Both England and Spain were ruled by royal families. The Queen was also the ruler of the United Kingdom, but as time passed, things changed. They still have traditional rulers, but they are less powerful than before. So we must proceed with caution and recognise that the politicisation of the chieftaincy poses a threat to Ghana’s democracy.”

"If we can transform this country to the level that we all expect, we owe it to ourselves to put an end to chieftaincy, political endorsements based on tribe, and religion. It is not healthy. Our chiefs must be responsible, respect their thrones, and avoid politics, which is divisive and a threat to national unity. If they fail to do so, Ghana’s youth will eventually rebel against our traditional rulers’ authority. So, if our chiefs want to maintain their dignity and authority, they should avoid politics,” he added.