The La Traditional Council’s recent suspension by the government has stirred concern, with the La Shikitele questioning the legal grounds for the decision.
The suspension, which was enacted by the Ministry of Religious and Chieftaincy Affairs alongside the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, aims to facilitate measures for improved operations of the Council.
However, A member of the La Traditional Council, Nii Adjei Koofeh IV, criticized the suspension, suggesting that the government’s efforts should instead be focused on tackling illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
The Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, in collaboration with the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, recently suspended the activities of the La Traditional Council, effective September 26, 2024, until further notice. According to the institutions, the suspension is intended to allow the implementation of appropriate measures for the council’s effective operation. Government institutions have been instructed not to engage with any individuals or groups claiming to represent the La Traditional Council.
Moreover, all paramount stool land issues have been placed on hold until the council’s operations resume or a new La Chief is enstooled.
In response, the La Shikitele, Nii Adjei Koofeh IV, who doubles as a member of the La Traditional Council addressed the media, expressing dissatisfaction with the suspension.
He firmly denied allegations of any land sales attributed to the council and urged the government to direct its focus towards addressing the pressing issue of illegal mining, or galamsey, instead of interfering with the council’s internal affairs.
