BY Daniel Bampoe
The Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has called on security agencies to take a firmer stance in enforcing rulings and judgments issued by the Regional Houses of Chiefs, as chieftaincy disputes continue to threaten peace and stability across the Eastern Region.
His appeal comes at a time the region is witnessing a surge in traditional leadership conflicts, many of which have escalated due to defiance of established customary and legal procedures.
Addressing the Eastern Regional National Security Liaison Officer, Francis Annoh-Dompreh, and his two deputies — Alhaji Sumaila Mahama and Abubakar Sadique — during a courtesy call at his palace, the Okyehene stressed that the growing culture of impunity in chieftaincy matters must be curtailed.
He urged security operatives to arrest and prosecute individuals who intentionally stir trouble or undermine decisions of the Regional House of Chiefs, noting that such acts fuel tension and destabilize communities.
Historically, the Eastern Region has been a theatre of recurring chieftaincy disputes, often rooted in contested successions, family rivalries, and disregard for arbitration processes.
The Okyenhene reminded the delegation that the authority of the Regional House of Chiefs is a cornerstone of the traditional governance system, and its judgements must be treated with the same seriousness as those of the formal courts.
His comments follow the latest flashpoint at Kwahu, where a contentious attempt to destool the Kwahumanhene, Daasebre Akuamoah Agyepong II, has sparked unrest. Despite the announcement of a new chief, Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III, the Judicial Committee of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs has issued an injunction restraining him from presenting himself as Kwahuhene until the full determination of the case.
The dispute mirrors a pattern of parallel enstoolments that has plagued several traditional areas in recent years.
The Okyehene’s call is widely seen as a push for stronger collaboration between traditional authorities and the state security apparatus to prevent the escalation of such conflicts.
He emphasised that the protection of lives and property must remain paramount, and that enforcing lawful directives is key to preserving the cultural heritage and social stability of the region.
