The Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has issued a stern warning to traditional leaders involved in chieftaincy disputes, vowing to arrest and prosecute any chief found fomenting trouble, even if it costs him his own position.
The Minister’s bold declaration came during his ongoing familiarization tour at the Dormaa Abampradease palace on September 10, 2025 where he addressed a gathering of traditional rulers.
Mr. Akwaboa expressed deep concern that protracted chieftaincy conflicts are severely hampering the government’s development agenda in the region. He cited ongoing disputes in Sunyani, Wenchi, Berekum, and Drobo as major obstacles to progress.
“My commitment to peace in this region is non-negotiable,” the Minister stated. “We cannot and will not sit back while these disputes hold our progress hostage” he emphasized.
He implored traditional authorities to resolve their differences selflessly and swiftly, acting in the best interest of their communities rather than personal gain.
To underscore his resolve, the Minister made a high-stakes pledge directly linking his job to his promise of peace.
“I am putting my own office on the line,” he declared. “I will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute any traditional authority who is found to be fomenting trouble. Let there be no doubt about my resolve.”
Responding on behalf of the Dormaahene, the Dormaa Twafourhene, Barima Twumasi Bekoe the Second, praised the Minister’s efforts, particularly in the fight against illegal mining, known as galamsey.
He also used the opportunity to call for the Minister’s support in combating the illegal felling of trees in the Dormaa forest, highlighting another critical environmental issue facing the region.
By Claude Kumi Abisa
