Kumasi: The Parliamentary Select Committee on Chieftaincy, Culture and Religious Affairs has paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, as part of its oversight responsibilities and working visit to the Ashanti Region. The visit formed part of the committee's efforts to engage key stakeholders in Ghana's chieftaincy institution and seek their input on matters relating to traditional leadership, culture, and religious affairs.
According to Ghana Web, Dr Fred Kyei, Chairman of Parliament's Select Committee on Chieftaincy, Culture and Religious Affairs in Ghana's 9th Parliament, emphasised the important role the Asantehene plays in chieftaincy matters both in Ghana and internationally. He noted that the Asantehene remains a major stakeholder whose wisdom and guidance are invaluable in addressing issues affecting traditional leadership and cultural governance in the country.
He explained that the committee found it necessary to officially introduce its mandate to the Asantehene while also seeking his views and recommendations on issues concerning chieftaincy and cultural preservation. Dr Asamoah noted that traditional leaders played central governance roles long before the introduction of modern democratic systems, adding that the 1992 Constitution continues to recognise and assign vital responsibilities to them.
The committee expressed encouragement regarding the concerns raised by the Asantehene, particularly the urgent need to prevent partisan politics from interfering in chieftaincy matters. Dr Asamoah also voiced concerns over the high cost the state incurs in resolving chieftaincy disputes, particularly through expensive security interventions. He suggested that a portion of these resources should instead be redirected to strengthen the capacity of the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs, enabling them to resolve disputes before they escalate into crises.
The committee delegation included the Vice Chairman, Elvis Osei Mensah Dapaah, as well as ranking members of the committee, who were warmly received at the Manhyia Palace. Also speaking after the engagement, the Vice Chairman, Hon Elvis Osei Mensah Dapaah, and Hon Lawyer Obiri Yeboah, a ranking member of the committee, disclosed that several important concerns and suggestions raised by the Asantehene would be taken back to Parliament for further deliberation and possible action.
He assured that the committee remains committed to working closely with traditional authorities across the country to promote peace, preserve Ghana's cultural heritage, and strengthen the institution of chieftaincy.