Chieftaincy disputes becoming a major security threat in Ghana — Muntaka

Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, has expressed concern over the increasing security threats posed by chieftaincy disputes across the country.

According to him, conflicts linked to traditional leadership and land ownership are gradually undermining national cohesion and fueling violence in several communities.

He has therefore called for a national dialogue on chieftaincy issues to address the growing tensions and preserve peace in the country.

Speaking in an interview on Accra-based JoyNews' PM Express on Wednesday, June 24, the Interior Minister said the country must confront the challenge before it worsens.

"Chieftaincy has served us well. Chieftaincy is part of our culture. Chieftaincy is part of what we are, but unfortunately, chieftaincy is becoming a huge challenge for us, and it's sad," he said.

The Asawase MP, who also supervises national security, said many Ghanaians are increasingly identifying themselves along ethnic and traditional lines rather than as citizens of one country.

He noted that disputes over land boundaries and traditional authority are creating divisions among people who have lived peacefully together for generations.

According to him, emotions surrounding such conflicts often become so intense that parties involved lose their sense of reason and begin to see issues as a battle between "us" and "them."

The Minister disclosed that he has already discussed the issue with the Minister for Local Government and Chieftaincy and believes a national conversation on chieftaincy matters has become necessary.

He further highlighted the role of the National Peace Council in managing conflicts and preventing violence in various communities.

"What we try to do, with the help of our donors like the Netherlands, the UK and Germany, is to create more peace-building committees within the communities. I can tell you that in many communities we use that to diffuse a lot of the tension," he stated.