Mr. Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has appealed to Ghanaians, particularly traditional authorities, to assist his ministry in resolving the increasing number of Chieftaincy disputes in the country.
Mr. Asamoah Boateng pleaded, "Chieftaincy matters are not a place for joking, so I sincerely need prayers and spiritual protection to serve in the Chieftaincy Ministry."
During his first meeting with the Central Regional House of Chiefs (CRHC) to solicit their prayers and spiritual protection, he stated that their support would enable him to meet the expectations of the people, particularly the traditional authorities.
"I am confident that with the spiritual support and prayers of chiefs, I can significantly reduce chieftaincy disputes" Mr. Asamoah Boateng had optimism.
His ministry unveiled a comprehensive plan to reduce to a minimum the number of chieftaincy disputes that have plagued the nation.
"Chieftainship disputes account for approximately 70% of our national security issues; therefore, if there are areas of contention, development will cease and we will spend more as a nation to separate the belligerent factions and sometimes even families. It is a source of concern, and I intend to work diligently to reduce the Chieftaincy dispute by a large margin."
The Minister disclosed, "Even though I don't have the magic to drastically reduce Chieftaincy disputes, I have the humanity to talk to people, know what I'm doing, and apply the knowledge and wisdom that God has given me."
He used the occasion to urge chiefs to maintain law and order and protect their dignity by avoiding actions that could spark local conflicts.
Odeefo Amoakwa Buadu VIII, president of the Central Regional House Chiefs and paramount chief of Breman Traditional Area, congratulated Mr. Asamoah Boateng on his new position on behalf of the Chiefs.
He stated that he and his fellow chiefs have faith in Asamoah Boateng to strengthen the institution of chieftaincy.
Odeefo Amoakwa Buadu remarked, "We are already aware of the efforts you are making to find lasting solutions to the country's protracted chieftaincy disputes."