The recent meeting of the National House of Chiefs, attended by the president, was not just a formality; it was a gathering rich in reflections, history, and calls for progress. The address from one of the respected members, who proudly noted his 86th birthday, captured the essence of the event—a delicate interplay between honoring tradition and shaping the future.
A Warm Welcome to the Presidency
The speaker began with a gracious acknowledgment of the president’s leadership and congratulated him on navigating Ghana through a seamless constitutional transition. “Ghana is safe,” he affirmed, attributing the nation’s peace to the harmonious collaboration between the outgoing and incoming presidents. This transition, he suggested, set a positive tone for the country and laid the foundation for continued progress.
The warmth of his words reflected not only personal admiration but also the collective relief and optimism of the chiefs, who play a critical role in maintaining peace and stability within their respective regions.
Revisiting the Role of the National House of Chiefs
One of the central themes of the address was the role and standing of the National House of Chiefs within Ghana’s governance framework. The speaker nostalgically recounted the days when former President Jerry John Rawlings reestablished the Secretariat under the National House of Chiefs, granting it direct access to the presidency. This arrangement, he implied, strengthened the chiefs’ ability to contribute meaningfully to national governance.
However, subsequent changes diluted this structure, leading to what he described as a disconnect between the National House of Chiefs and the executive arm of government. He called for a review of these changes, emphasizing the need for the president to directly oversee staffing for both the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs, as stipulated by the constitution.
This appeal highlighted a broader concern about the erosion of traditional authority and the need to restore the chiefs’ rightful place in Ghana’s governance.
Constitutional Reform: A Living Document
The speaker lauded the president’s openness to constitutional amendments, describing the constitution as a “living document” that must evolve to address contemporary challenges. He referenced previous efforts, such as the constitutional review under the late President John Evans Atta Mills, where the chiefs had worked tirelessly to provide well-reasoned recommendations. Unfortunately, much of their input was dismissed, leaving unresolved issues that continue to affect the nation today.
He expressed hope that under the current administration, these recommendations would be revisited and given due consideration. The chiefs, he assured, were ready to engage constructively, bringing their wisdom and experience to the table.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
The address also touched on the structural challenges facing the National House of Chiefs. From staffing issues to administrative bottlenecks, the speaker outlined the need for systemic reforms to ensure that the institution operates effectively. He called for a review of laws and practices that undermine the chiefs’ ability to fulfill their roles, particularly in relation to civil service interference in staffing decisions.
These issues, while technical, have broader implications for governance and the preservation of traditional authority. By addressing them, the government can strengthen the role of chiefs as custodians of culture and mediators of peace.
A Call for Unity and Moderation
Throughout his speech, the speaker emphasized the importance of unity and moderation. He acknowledged the challenges facing the country but expressed confidence in Ghana’s ability to overcome them through dialogue and collaboration. “Luckily, we have our mother Ghana, who always controls us to exhibit good temperament of moderation,” he said, encapsulating the spirit of the meeting.
Conclusion: A Partnership for Progress
As the meeting concluded, the speaker expressed gratitude to the president for his willingness to listen and engage with the chiefs. He reaffirmed their commitment to working with the government to address pressing issues and contribute to the nation’s development.
This address was more than a ceremonial welcome—it was a thoughtful commentary on the intersection of tradition and modern governance. It reminded everyone present that the chiefs, as custodians of Ghana’s heritage, have a vital role to play in shaping the country’s future. Their voices, rich with history and wisdom, remain indispensable in the journey toward peace, unity, and progress