Corrupt kingmakers fuelling chieftaincy disputes – Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has blamed the rise in chieftaincy disputes in Ghana on alleged corruption among some kingmakers, calling on traditional authorities to reinforce succession processes to safeguard peace and stability.
He made the remarks on Wednesday when the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs paid a courtesy visit to him at the Presidency in Accra. During the meeting, the President praised the region for maintaining relative calm despite increasing security challenges across the Sahel.
Despite the commendation, President Mahama voiced concern over the growing number of chieftaincy conflicts in several parts of the country, saying many of the disputes arise from a failure to respect established lines of succession.
“Our kingmakers have become corrupt. And so even though they know who the rightful person is, a big envelope can change their minds,” he said.
The President alleged that monetary inducements have sometimes influenced the selection of chiefs, leading to the installation of individuals with no legitimate claim to traditional stools.
“They go and bring somebody who has absolutely nothing to do with the royal family and want to install the person as the leader of the traditional area. And that is what creates the conflicts,” he added.
President Mahama commended the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs for its role in preserving peace in the region and encouraged its members to continue promoting stability and development in their traditional areas.
He also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to collaborating with traditional leaders to advance national development, strengthen local governance and maintain lasting peace across the country.
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