The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, has announced that government is taking steps to amend portions of the Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759) to restore the authority of traditional leaders to summon their subjects.
Hon. Ibrahim disclosed this during an engagement with members of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, where he explained that the proposed amendment seeks to empower chiefs to effectively enforce customary practices, strengthen traditional governance structures, and support the protection of Ghana’s natural resources.
According to the Minister, the initiative forms part of government’s broader commitment to revitalize the chieftaincy institution and ensure that they remain relevant in contemporary governance. He emphasized that restoring the power of summons will not only reinforce the dignity of traditional rulers but also revive important community values such as communal labour and mutual responsibility.
He recounted how communal labour and local order were maintained in the past through the authority of the chiefs. He was of the belief that when the power to summon is restored, traditional leaders can once again mobilize their communities to protect their environment, uphold discipline, and safeguard customary laws.
Hon Ibrahim further noted that empowering chiefs in this way will complement government’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining and other environmental offences, as chiefs will be better positioned to engage directly with their subjects on matters affecting their lands and natural resources.
He also referenced the President’s plan to establish Palace Courts, an initiative aimed at decentralizing justice delivery by allowing traditional authorities to handle minor offences, particularly those related to sanitation and local disputes, within their jurisdictions, emphasizing that this reflected the President’s confidence in the chieftaincy institution as a key partner in promoting local governance, law, and order.
The Minister was, however, quick to note that any restored powers will come with clear safeguards to prevent abuse and ensure accountability. He assured that government will engage all stakeholders including the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs, traditional councils, and the Attorney-General’s Department to ensure that the amendment aligns with the Constitution and respects the rights of citizens.
Source: Chantal Aidoo
Public Relations Unit, MLGCRA