Ghana: Chieftaincy Dispute Retarding Dev’t At Abenase, King of Asante Asks To Step In

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

Accra, Ghana, June 14, 2019//-A group calling itself the Concerned Youth of Abenase in the Ejisu-Juaben Municipality of the Ashanti Region has petitioned the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to help install a new chief for the community after several years of protracted chieftaincy dispute.

The Abenase, Edwinase and Asaapong chieftaincy dispute started 15 years ago following the death of Nana Yaw Boakye, the then occupant of the stool.

The result of the inability of the kingmakers to enstool a new chief is negatively impacting on the development and progress of the area.

Nana Osei Assuming,  member of Asene family and also a unit committee Chairman for Abenase electoral area disclosed to the media that the area is seriously lagging behind other communities in the Municipality due to the absence of a chief in the area.

The absence of a chief in the community  according to Nana Assuming, has paved way for uncontrolled wrong doing, illegal sale of land, unplanned structures, premature death, and upsurge of immoral practices on the part of some the youth .

“We the concern youth are therefore appealing to the King of Ashanti, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, as a matter of urgency to intervene and resolve the chieftaincy dispute to ensure speedy developmental projects for the well-being of the people”, he stated.

Chieftaincy today has evolved into an institution with both modern and traditional dimensions, backed by the state and the constitution.

The institution is able to hold the community together. As the unifying force in their respective communities, chiefs unite and create harmony among the people in their various chiefdoms.

Historically, the main functions of chiefs include dispute settlement, codification of customary law, arrangement of ceremonies and festivals, organisation of communal labour and promotion of socio-economic development. Chiefs have been involved in the development of their areas since pre-colonial times.

Additionally, contemporary chiefs face new challenges such as demands for good governance, the introduction of information and communication technologies and expectations of international connections.

By Oppong Baah, African Eye Report

 

 

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