Correspondence from the Eastern Region

Former Chief Justice of Ghana, Sophia Akuffo, has been enstooled as the Mmrahene of the Akuapem Traditional Area in a colourful traditional ceremony held at Akropong-Akuapem in the Eastern Region.

The enstoolment took place on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, during the fifth Awukudae observance at the palace of the Okuapehene, drawing traditional leaders, jurists, political figures, the security forces, members of the Akuapem Traditional Council and citizens from across the country.

Justice Akuffo, who was introduced with the stool name Nana Abena Boafoa Akuffo, underwent customary rites beginning at Akuffo Fi, the ancestral home of the Akuffo royal family, before proceeding to the Okuapehene’s palace for the main installation ceremony.

The former Chief Justice was adorned in traditional regalia, including a batakari and ahenemma, as she formally accepted the role after being asked three times by traditional elders whether she was willing to serve the Akuapem State in her new capacity.

Traditional prayers and libation were subsequently performed, while other customary rites, including the symbolic sacrifice of a sheep, were carried out in accordance with Akuapem tradition.

In Akan traditional governance, the title “Mmrahene” is associated with the custodian and interpreter of customary laws, traditions and ethical governance within a traditional area. Occupants of the stool are expected to advise traditional authorities on customary matters, mediate disputes and help preserve traditional values and legal systems.

Speaking on the significance of the installation, the Krontihene of the Akuapem Traditional Area, Osahene Boafo Ansah III, explained that the regalia worn by Justice Akuffo symbolised honour, courage and responsibility.

“The kente she is wearing represents honour and beauty bestowed on her by the Okuapehene, while the batakari represents courage. She is joining us to help lead the area. A society without law, learning, truth and righteousness is a bad one, so if she has been able to do it for Ghana, then she can also do it for Okuapeman,” the traditional leader stated.

A citation presented during the ceremony praised Justice Akuffo for her contribution to national development and education.

“By this citation, the Okuapehene and the entire Akuapem Traditional Council salute you as a beacon of inspiration for educators across Ghana and the African continent, for your excellence and unwavering commitment to shaping young minds across Okuapeman and the nation at large,” portions of the citation read.

The ceremony formed part of the broader Awukudae programme, which also featured traditional drumming and dancing, presentations on the upcoming Okwahu/Odwira reenactment activities, goodwill messages and cultural displays.

Justice Akuffo’s elevation has been widely described by supporters as recognition of her distinguished public service, legal expertise and commitment to governance and justice.

Analysts say her installation could strengthen the relationship between customary governance and Ghana’s constitutional system at a time when traditional authorities continue to play critical mediation and developmental roles in society.

Justice Akuffo served as Ghana’s 13th Chief Justice from 2017 to 2019. She previously served as President of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights and currently serves as a member of the Council of State.

Born on December 20, 1949, at Akropong-Akuapem, she hails from the prominent Akuffo royal lineage, which has produced several notable national figures, including former ceremonial President Edward Akufo-Addo and former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

The Akuapem State remains one of Ghana’s historically influential traditional states, renowned for its contributions to education, Christian missionary activities and political leadership since its establishment in the 18th century following the defeat of Akwamu forces in 1730.

Nigeria's Nnamdi Onwaez thrilled after reaching 110m hurdles final


Esther Obenewaa targets Commonwealth Games gold medal glory