Dodowa: The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA), has announced an increase in quarterly financial allocations for the adjudication of chieftaincy disputes from GHS30,000 to GHS50,000. This increase is scheduled to be implemented soon and is part of measures to strengthen the operations of Regional Houses of Chiefs.
According to Ghana News Agency, the announcement was made by Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Sector Minister, during a familiarisation visit to the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs in Dodowa. Mr. Ibrahim reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the institution of chieftaincy and its constitutional mandate, noting that the increment was in response to concerns about inadequate funding which affected the timely and effective resolution of chieftaincy disputes.
Improving adjudication processes is deemed critical for maintaining peace, stability, and social cohesion, particularly in Greater Accra, due to its diversity and strategic importance to national development. Mr. Ibrahim acknowledged the pivotal role of traditional authorities as custodians of culture, custom, and customary law, emphasizing their indispensable contribution to conflict resolution and community stability within Ghana's governance framework.
The Minister also highlighted operational challenges faced by the House, such as shortages of essential sub-professional staff, including bailiffs, security personnel, and cleaners. These shortages undermine efficiency, security, and the dignity of the institution. He assured that the government, through the Ministry, would continue to engage stakeholders to identify practical and sustainable solutions within available resources to strengthen the capacity of Regional Houses of Chiefs.
In addition to the increased adjudication allocation, the government has substantially raised monthly allowances for paramount chiefs and queen mothers to GHS3,000 and GHS2,400, respectively, a 300 percent increment. Funds have already been released for disbursement through the Regional Houses of Chiefs to facilitate their work.
Mr. Ibrahim emphasized that the visit marked the beginning of deeper collaboration between the Ministry and traditional authorities, recognizing that meaningful local development is unattainable without their active partnership.
His Royal Majesty (HRM) King Professor Odaifio Welentsi III, President of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs (GARHC), noted that limited quarterly allocations for sittings had constrained the House's ability to dispose of cases promptly. With the recent increment, he expressed optimism that much progress would be made in this regard.
The funds previously allocated allowed the House to sit for a maximum of five days each quarter, leading to delays and dissatisfaction among litigants. HRM Welentsi III also emphasized the need to strengthen research into chieftaincy matters, especially the documentation of lines of succession to stools in the region, as inadequate attention to research has contributed to recurring disputes.
Enhanced research capacity would not only help resolve existing cases but also curb future conflicts by providing clarity on succession issues across the region. HRM Welentsi III appealed for government support to facilitate the completion of the House's new office complex, describing the project as critical to improving working conditions and operational efficiency.
He expressed optimism that with stronger collaboration between the government and traditional authorities, the House would be better positioned to deliver timely justice and strengthen social cohesion across the region.