Minister condemns dubious kingmakers

Accra, Jan 6, GNA - Mr Sampson K. Boafo, Minister of State at the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Culture, has expressed concern about the activities of persons who, although they do not have connections with stool, have made themselves kingmakers leading to several chieftaincy disputes.

He therefore advised the youth not to succumb to influence by such persons who hired them to engage in violence to mar peace in communities. Mr Boafo said this at a reception in Accra the ministry organised to interact with the media and share the ministry's achievements and the way forward for 2008.

He said although the ministry was infant, its contribution to the promotion of chieftaincy and culture had been felt by most Ghanaians. "People did not appreciate the creation of the ministry at first but we have proved them wrong. By next year we hope to become a giant ministry."

Mr Boafo said there was the need for a national debate on ways to maintain the institution and develop it to respond to modern trends and dynamics.

Mr Boafo appealed to the media to be circumspect in their reportage and avoid over sensationalism on chieftaincy issues, since this could lead to difficulties in the ministry's attempt to resolve disputes. He also urged the media to highlight the positive aspects of chieftaincy and report on development projects being undertaken by chiefs and called for support to promote indigenous culture.

Mr Affail Monney, Vice President of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) commended the ministry for recognising the media in its achievements and for showing its appreciation for the inky fraternity. He also pledged the media's support and urged the ministry to build the capacity of the media on chieftaincy and cultural issues.