The Paramount Chief of Tepa Traditional Area, Nana Adusei Atwenewah Ampem, has called for calm and restraint following heightened tensions in the town.
Speaking from his palace, the traditional leader appealed to political parties and residents to de-escalate tensions and avoid actions that could disrupt peace in the area.
This call for calm comes after reports of unrest, including the burning of a car belonging to the National Disaster Management Organization’s (NADMO) Director General and NPP parliamentary candidate for Ahafo Ano North, Eric Nana Agyemang-Prempeh.
Allegedly, some youth were involved in the destruction of his vehicle and other properties, intensifying tensions within the community.
Nana Adusei Ampem emphasized the need for unity and peace, refuting claims circulating on social media that his palace had been attacked or vandalized.
“No one has come to my palace to destroy anything, as has been suggested on social media,” he Tuesday, December 10, 2024.
He urged residents not to believe misinformation and focus on maintaining the harmony that Tepa has long been known for.
The Paramount Chief stressed the importance of dialogue and collaboration to resolve disputes peacefully. “Violence only breeds more violence,” he said, adding, “we are one people, and we must find constructive ways to address our differences without destroying property or harming one another.”
The Tepamanhene called on political leaders to take responsibility for ensuring their supporters remain peaceful.
He appealed to all political parties to educate their members on the importance of tolerance and respect for differing views, especially during this period of heightened political activity.
His call for peace has resonated with many residents, who have expressed their commitment to supporting efforts to calm tensions.
Traditional leaders, religious figures, and civil society groups in Tepa are also expected to join the peace-building process in the coming days.
As the situation unfolds, Nana Adusei Ampem remains optimistic that with collective effort and dialogue, Tepa will overcome its challenges and return to its peaceful state.
“We must remember that peace is a collective responsibility, and it is the foundation of any meaningful development,” he concluded.
By Benjamin Aidoo|Akoma FM|Kumasi
