President Urges Chiefs To Engage In Constitutional Review And Join Fight Against Illegal Mining

President John Dramani Mahama has called on traditional leaders to actively participate in the ongoing constitutional review process, emphasizing their crucial role in governance and national development.

Speaking during his thank-you tour in the Western Region, the President acknowledged the chieftaincy institution as the backbone of governance and community leadership, praising chiefs for their long-standing role as custodians of peace, culture, and progress.

“In the most challenging times, you have stood firm in safeguarding the integrity of our society. That is why I am calling on you once again to be active participants in the constitutional review process, which we have started,” he stated.

The President expressed hope that traditional authorities would fully engage in the upcoming conference, stressing that Ghana’s governance structures must reflect its rich traditions.

He further noted that the review process aims to ensure that chiefs are not merely symbolic figures but key partners in decision-making at all levels of government.

The President also highlighted the urgent need for a united front in combating illegal mining across the country.

He emphasized that only a collaborative strategy involving chiefs, youth, and community members can effectively address the issue.

According to him, a joint effort remains the surest way to win the fight against illegal mining.

Meanwhile, the Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area, Nana Kobina Nketsiah V, who spoke on behalf of traditional leaders in the Western Region, rendered an apology to President Mahama following their absence at a crucial meeting with the National House of Chiefs.

He acknowledged the region’s failure to participate in the discussions and expressed regret over ongoing disputes among chiefs, which he admitted had hindered unity and progress.

“The Western Regional House of Chiefs is accountable to the people, and it cannot fail. We will not ask for forgiveness, but rather, we implore the people to continue pushing us, urging us to unite in service to our traditional responsibilities,” he stated.

Story by Nana Fynn@W/R.