The Chief of Coaltar in the Eastern Region, Barima Asiedu Okekrebesi II, has been destooled following a violent clash in Kraboa, a farming community in the Ayensuano District, which led to the tragic deaths of two individuals.
The destoolment was officially announced by a delegation of traditional leaders (Nananom), led by the Apapamhene and Amantuomiensahene, Osabarima Okogyeaman Apagya Fori. The delegation carried out the customary destoolment process at the Coaltar Palace.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday, January 16, 2025, stemmed from growing tensions over alleged illegal land sales and crop destruction in the area. Residents of Kraboa, angered by these activities, staged a protest against the chief. The situation escalated when landguards allegedly hired by Barima Asiedu Okekrebesi II opened fire on the unarmed protesters.
Eyewitnesses reported that the landguards, estimated to be about 50 in number, accompanied the chief in a convoy of vehicles and motorcycles. The confrontation, which occurred in broad daylight, unfolded in the presence of officers from the Ayensuano District Police.
Tragically, two lives were lost during the violent clash. One of the deceased was reportedly retrieved from the palace of the Coaltar Chief, who fled the town shortly after the incident. He has since been declared wanted by the police.
Residents accused the local police of neglecting their duties, alleging that they prioritized transporting an injured landguard to the hospital over aiding a native who had been shot.
The Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, intervened by instructing the Kyebi Regional Police Command to restore calm to the area. A customary ritual has since been performed to validate the destoolment of the Coaltar Chief.
This is not the first time Barima Asiedu Okekrebesi II has faced controversy. Earlier this year, on January 5, agents acting on his behalf allegedly stormed the palace of the Odikro of Alema, another farming community in the Ayensuano District. During the raid, the agents reportedly assaulted occupants of the palace without provocation, further deepening tensions in the region.
The destoolment of Barima Asiedu Okekrebesi II marks a significant step in addressing the grievances of the affected communities. It also highlights the Okyenhene's unwavering commitment to justice and his determination to safeguard the rights and dignity of his subjects.
The people of Kraboa and surrounding communities have expressed relief and hope that this development will pave the way for peace and accountability within the traditional leadership structure.
Credit: Daniel Bampoe