The Overlord of the Akyem Abuakwa State, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has called upon state security agencies to honor and implement the resolutions made by the House of Chiefs regarding chieftaincy issues, emphasizing that this is vital for resolving conflicts in the Eastern region.
The Okyehene made this appeal during a courtesy visit from the Eastern Regional National Security Liaison Officer, Francis Annor Dompreh, on Wednesday, December 3, at the Ofori Panin Fie in Kyebi, where they discussed the escalating chieftaincy disputes in Akyem.
He cautioned that the increasing involvement of politicians and outside influences in traditional matters threatens the authority and respect of chiefs.
“The encroachment of politicians and external powers attempting to dictate chieftaincy issues is concerning. The participation of security agencies in chieftaincy affairs diminishes our strength and trivializes the entire situation. Security must respect and uphold the decisions made by the House of Chiefs,” he stated.
Regarding illegal mining (galamsey), Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin reflected on his ongoing battle against this issue, highlighting that curbing galamsey has become progressively more challenging for both traditional leaders and the government.
“Galamsey operators threw stones at my vehicle when I urged people to prevent them from damaging the land and water resources. The non-indigenous individuals involved in galamsey were responsible for that lawlessness. My intention was solely to eliminate this problem long ago. When I reported galamsey activities, I was accused of participating in galamsey myself when I tried to put an end to it.
He continued, “They sought to undermine me because I was a proponent against it. I endured significant consequences for that. It even impacted the projects I was undertaking abroad. Why would I engage in galamsey when I have the capability to conduct legitimate mining? All the lands in Akyem are mine. No chief can prevent me from legitimate mining, not even the government if I choose to pursue proper mining.”
In a statement to the media following the meeting, Mr. Annor Dompreh characterized the engagement as productive.
He conveyed his optimism that, given the Okyehene’s profound understanding and experience, matters concerning galamsey, sand winning, land-guard activities, conflicts, and the recent increase in murder cases within his jurisdiction will experience considerable enhancement.
