Okwenya Chief urges restraint, calls for apology over alleged ethnocentric remarks

Correspondence from the Eastern Region

A chief in the Manya Krobo Traditional Area has called for calm and restraint following public outrage over alleged ethnocentric remarks made by the Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi, urging the lawmaker to apologise to restore unity and protect his political future.

Speaking on the matter, Nene Olepeme Sakinor Nanor I, Chief of Suisi-Okwenya, emphasised that leaders must exercise caution in their public utterances.

He suggested that the MP’s comments may have been made out of frustration but acknowledged that they have deeply offended many Krobo people. “If you are selected as a leader, you should speak with discretion,” he stated, adding that an apology would help preserve the MP’s dignity and foster reconciliation.

The controversy stems from remarks allegedly made by Baafi that were widely interpreted as ethnocentric and dismissive of Krobo identity and concerns.

The comments, which reportedly emerged in the context of regional political tensions, have drawn sharp criticism from traditional leaders, political actors, and sections of the public within the Eastern Region.

Critics argue that such statements risk deepening divisions in a region already sensitive to ethnic dynamics, particularly between Krobo communities and other groups.

In response, some Krobo youth groups and political figures have issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding an unqualified apology from the MP. They insist that failure to do so could trigger further agitation.

The situation has also drawn attention to the role of the Eastern Regional Minister, who, as noted by the chief, holds oversight responsibility for all communities in the region and is expected to act impartially.

Nene Sakinor further urged those condemning the MP to avoid inflammatory reactions, stressing that dialogue and mutual respect remain essential to resolving the issue.

He expressed optimism that the lawmaker would heed the calls and apologise before the ultimatum expires, while encouraging Krobo citizens to remain calm as efforts toward resolution continue.