The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has expressed his commitment to working closely with traditional leaders to address the lingering land and chieftaincy disputes in the region.
According to the Minister, chiefs, as community leaders, play a vital role in resolving these issues. Mr. Akamugri noted that many conflicts in various communities and families within the region stem from chieftaincy disputes, land boundaries, and land ownership.
He emphasized that chiefs are crucial in addressing these disputes and pledged to collaborate with them to find lasting solutions.
“This region has many conflicts, ranging from chieftaincy disputes to land boundary issues. Our chiefs are key in resolving these matters. I believe that my courtesy calls on them will mark the beginning of a good relationship. This way, whenever we need to resolve such issues, I can count on their cooperation to ensure peace in the region,” he stated.
The Minister believes these disputes have hindered development and caused tensions among communities. He made these remarks while speaking to journalists during a courtesy call on three paramount chiefs within the BONABOTO zone yesterday.
The chiefs he visited included Tongraan Kugbilsong Nanlebegtang, the Paramount Chief of the Talensi Traditional Area; Naba Bilea Namaal-Tinga Caesar Afegera III, the Paramount Chief of the Zuarungu Traditional Area; and Naba Baba Salifu Atamale Lemyaarum, the Paramount Chief of the Bongo Traditional Area.
Mr. Akamugri explained why he deemed it necessary to embark on this visit after assuming office as the Regional Minister. According to him, before modern-day politics, chiefs were the rulers of their communities. Therefore, it is the responsibility of any government official to engage with traditional leaders after taking office.
All the chiefs the Minister visited pledged their full support for his efforts and urged residents to foster collaboration rather than division.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1MHz | David Azure Bolgatanga
