Mahama Ayariga, the Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has stated that ministers of state have no mandate to interfere in specific chieftaincy matters.

According to him, chieftaincy remains a sensitive area governed by constitutional and legal provisions that clearly define the roles of government and traditional authorities.

Speaking during his vetting by Parliament's Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, 2026, Ayariga said ministers, acting on behalf of the president, are expected to support and strengthen the chieftaincy institution rather than involve themselves in disputes among traditional authorities.

“It is not the business of a minister to meddle in chieftaincy matters,” he told the committee.

He explained that institutions such as the National House of Chiefs, Regional Houses of Chiefs and Traditional Councils have clearly defined responsibilities for dealing with chieftaincy-related issues.

He added that matters which eventually reach the highest level of the judicial process fall under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.

“As minister, you have no job in meddling in chieftaincy matters, and that is how I will approach the work,” Ayariga stressed.

The minister-designate's comments come as he prepares to take responsibility for a ministry whose mandate includes overseeing government relations with traditional authorities and supporting the development and preservation of the chieftaincy institution.