Okyehene Urges Security Agencies to Respect Chiefs’ Decisions

The Overlord of Akyem Abuakwa, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has called on state security agencies to respect and implement the decisions of the House of Chiefs,  stressing that such cooperation is essential to resolving the increasing chieftaincy disputes in the Eastern Region.

The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the Eastern Regional National Security Liaison Officer, Francis Annor Dompreh, to the Ofori Panin Fie in Kyebi on Wednesday, December 3. The discussion focused on ways to address the growing conflicts in Akyem and to strengthen collaboration between traditional authorities and security institutions.

The Okyehene expressed concern about the rising influence of politicians and external actors in traditional affairs, describing it as a threat to the authority and dignity of chiefs. “The infiltration of politicians and power outside, trying to direct chieftaincy matters, is worrying. The involvement of security agencies in these issues weakens us and makes the whole process appear trivial. Security personnel should respect and enforce the decisions of the House of Chiefs,” he emphasized.

He also addressed the persistent challenge of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, highlighting his long-standing efforts to combat the practice. Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin recounted how galamsey operators once hurled stones at his car when he instructed them to cease operations that were destroying lands and water bodies. He explained that non-indigenous miners were largely responsible for this lawlessness.

The Okyehene lamented that his anti-galamsey stance has sometimes led to false accusations against him, claiming he engaged in illegal mining. “All the lands in Akyem belong to me. No chief, not even the government, can stop me from undertaking proper mining. Why would I engage in galamsey when I can mine responsibly?” he asked.

After the meeting, Mr. Annor Dompreh described the engagement as productive. He expressed optimism that with the Okyehene’s guidance and experience, issues related to galamsey, sand winning, land-guard activities, local conflicts, and the recent increase in violent crimes in the area would be better managed, leading to meaningful improvements for the region.