President John Dramani Mahama has expressed grave concern over the persistent chieftaincy disputes across Ghana, describing them as one of the country’s most pressing security challenges. He made these remarks during a meeting with the steering committee of the National House of Chiefs, where he emphasized the need for constitutional reforms, stronger traditional governance structures, and improved collaboration between government and traditional authorities.
The President highlighted the vital role chiefs play in maintaining peace and order in their communities, noting that disputes often escalate into security crises requiring government intervention.
“In all the security briefings I’ve received, the issue of chieftaincy disputes has become a major concern,” Mahama stated. “Anytime a chief passes away and a new one has to be selected, it often leads to rival factions and disputes, sometimes involving two or even three claimants.”
Strengthening Traditional Governance and Preventing Conflicts
President Mahama underscored the importance of working collaboratively with the National House of Chiefs to prevent disputes from escalating into violence. He acknowledged that while the 1992 Constitution grants autonomy to traditional authorities to handle chieftaincy matters, the government has a responsibility to step in when disputes threaten peace and stability. 
“The Constitution deliberately left chieftaincy matters to the chiefs to avoid government interference. However, when law and order break down, the government is compelled to intervene to restore peace,” Mahama explained.
He also addressed concerns about the challenges surrounding the selection of new chiefs, noting that these situations often create tension in communities. The President called for proactive measures to streamline succession processes and avoid conflicts.
Supreme Court Ruling and Constitutional Review
President Mahama touched on a recent Supreme Court ruling that bars chiefs from summoning their subjects to their palaces. He assured the committee that this matter could be revisited during future constitutional reviews to clarify the lines of authority within traditional governance.
“I know many of you have raised concerns about the Supreme Court ruling barring chiefs from summoning their subjects. When the opportunity arises to review the Constitution, I’m confident you will present a strong case for revisiting this issue to delineate authority more clearly,” he stated.
Concerns About the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Staffing Issues
Mamponghene Daasebre Osei Bonsu, a key member of the committee, expressed his appreciation for the meeting while raising concerns about the dissolution of the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. He called for a closer look at the structural and staffing issues affecting traditional governance.
“We need clarity on the constitutional standing of chiefs and a better understanding of how government reforms, such as the dissolution of the Ministry of Chieftaincy, impact our operations,” Daasebre Osei Bonsu said.
He stressed the importance of detailed discussions to address these issues and ensure that the contributions of traditional authorities are not undermined.
Commitment to Peace and Unity
President Mahama concluded by reiterating his administration’s commitment to working with traditional authorities to address chieftaincy disputes and other challenges affecting traditional governance. He called for unity among chiefs and urged them to adopt mediation and dialogue to resolve conflicts.
“We must all work together to maintain peace and security in our communities. Your role as custodians of tradition and culture is invaluable, and we will continue to collaborate with you to ensure a stable and prosperous Ghana,” the President affirmed.
Key Takeaways from the Meeting
- Chieftaincy disputes are a top security concern, often leading to conflicts that require government intervention.
- President Mahama called for constitutional reforms and improved traditional governance to address these issues.
- The President pledged to revisit the Supreme Court ruling on chiefs’ authority during future constitutional reviews.
- Concerns were raised about the dissolution of the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and its impact on traditional governance.
The meeting underscored the shared commitment of the government and the National House of Chiefs to promote peace and strengthen Ghana’s traditional governance systems.
