
The Konor of Manya Krobo, Nene Sakite II, has hailed the policy proposal by the Vice-President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to integrate traditional leadership into modern governance.
The chief, who is the president of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs, made the endorsement when he welcomed the vice presidential candidate of the NPP, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, into his palace in Manya Krobo.
He noted that the stability of the country “depends on the stability of the chieftaincy institution.”
Nene Sakite II indicated that traditional rulers are closer to the people than politicians. Accordingly, he stressed that Dr. Bawumia’s bold initiative to integrate governance with chieftaincy was apt.
The chief explained that integrating governance with chieftaincy involves aligning traditional leadership structures with modern governance practices to enhance community development and effective administration.
He noted that this aims to combine the authority and influence of traditional chiefs with democratic principles, rule of law, and citizen participation in decision-making.
He stressed that the integration must seek to leverage traditional knowledge and cultural values to foster sustainable development and inclusive governance.
He was hopeful that the selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as running mate to Dr. Bawumia would play a key role in making the dream of the flagbearer a reality.
Nene Sakite II also counselled Dr. Prempeh and NPP party faithful not to be complacent, but to work hard to convince Ghanaians about their achievements and what they intend to do in their next administration.
“If you work harder, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh will be the next Vice-President of Ghana,” he stated.
In response, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh said Dr. Bawumia is a man of his words, and the chieftaincy institution will be called upon to play its rightful role in his governance.
“I know that Dr. Bawumia will not renege on his promise. In due course, the role of the chieftaincy institution will change, and traditional leaders will be asked to contribute meaningfully to the development of the nation in the era of Dr. Bawumia as President of Ghana,” he stated.
He added: “As politicians, we must understand that for the unity, stability, progress and development of this country, government, religious leaders and the chieftaincy institution must be coordinated effectively, build consensus to bring proper development to the people of Ghana. I say this because we work closely with the people, hence the need for proper synergies to be built to facilitate their well-being.”
He stated that chiefs had been leaders of society since time immemorial, while religious leaders had been there for the country spiritually.
“Therefore, as politicians, we must not attempt to raise ourselves higher, and lord it over the people; instead, we must all see ourselves playing different, equally important roles to make society better,” he indicated.