News
Chieftaincy disputes pose a threat to investment
The Western Regional Minister, Mr Kwabena Otchere Darko-Mensah, has bemoaned the numerous chieftaincy disputes which continued to pose serious threats to the peace and security of the region.
He said notwithstanding efforts by the security agencies, almost all the districts in the region have one issue or the other. Prominent among them are the protracted chieftaincy disputes at Dixcove, Fijai, Essipon, Komfueku, Ateiku, Dompim-Pepesa and Shama.
The region, he said, continued to enjoy relative peace, with no cause for fear and panic, adding that it is heart-warming to note that intensification of security patrols has brought some relief to residents of the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan area but nevertheless, vigilance and personal security on the part of every citizen is required to ensure safety.
Mr Kwabena Otchere Darko-Mensah expressed these concerns at a two-day meeting with members of the Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC), which was the first meeting of the year.
He explained that the meeting was always held in the first quarter of the year but the COVID-19 pandemic forced people to adjust meetings because of the numbers involved.
He said the Regional Security Council (RCC) met periodically and at emergency sessions to deal with and review security issues in the region, among such issues dealt with was the resolution of impasse between the Chief Imam of Sekondi Mosque, and the Sekondi-Zongo Chief over the management of the Sekondi Central Mosque.
The Regional Minister told all districts that have not yet elected their presiding members to do so as a matter of urgency, adding “failing to do so may lead the President declaring the assembly as having been in default and may consequently transfer the performance of its functions to a person or body by Executive Instrument and dissolve or suspend it for not more than one year (Section 37 of the Local Governance Act, 2016(Act 936).
He congratulated Mr Benjamin Kessie, Dr Isaac Dasmani and Alhaji Abdul Mumin-Issah on their appointment and subsequent confirmation to the high office of Chief Executive of their respective assemblies.
He also congratulated the 10 Presiding Members (PMs) on their election; and further implored the remaining four assemblies (Wassa Amenfi West, Amenfi Central, Ellembelle and Wassa East) who have not yet been able to elect their PMs to do the necessary consultations, to ensure the election of their PMs.
He indicated that guidelines have been issued for the MMDAs and MDAs to prepare their 2021 Annual Budget and this is where it is essential for all the assemblies to have their Presiding Members elected.
Mr Darko-Mensah noted that until the laws change, the District Assemblies remained non-partisan and should, therefore, conduct their affairs as such.
He told the MMDAs to be business-like in their approach, always seeking to create value.
Mr Darko-Mensah appealed to all the MMDCEs to cooperate very well with the various technocrats to come out with feasible developmental agenda for the total development of the communities.
Present at the meeting were traditional leaders, MMDCEs, Presiding Members, coordinating directors and all heads of departments.
From Peter Gbambila, Takoradi.
President John Dramani Mahama has held bilateral talks with the President of South Korea, Lee Jae Myung, reaffirming the strong ties and shared values that continue to define relations between Ghana and South Korea.
During the discussions, President Mahama highlighted the historic connection between the two nations, noting their common commitment to democracy, human rights, and a shared historical experience.
He emphasised the opportunities for deeper cooperation, stating that Ghana’s rich natural and human resources, combined with Korea’s technological expertise and innovation, present a strong foundation for a mutually beneficial partnership.
The President also underscored Ghana’s strategic role within the African market through the African Continental Free Trade Area, whose secretariat is headquartered in Accra, positioning the country as a gateway for production and exports into a market of over 1.4 billion people.
President Lee Jae Myung, in his remarks, described Ghana as a country that holds a special place in the hearts of many Koreans, highlighting decades of cooperation in areas such as maritime security, trade, and agriculture.
He also reflected on the longstanding cultural and economic connection symbolised by the popular “Ghana” chocolate brand made from Ghanaian cocoa, which has been enjoyed in Korea for over five decades.
Both leaders expressed optimism about expanding people-to-people exchanges, cultural engagement, and economic collaboration, with President Lee noting that President Mahama’s visit provides a timely opportunity to deepen practical cooperation that will directly benefit the citizens of both nations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been informed by the relevant authorities in the United Arab Emirates that two Ghanaian nationals sustained injuries following a drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport earlier today, March 11, 2026.
Against this backdrop, the Government of Ghana has strongly condemned any act that endangers civilian lives and critical infrastructure.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, March 11, such incidents pose serious risks to public safety and underscore the importance of ensuring the protection of civilians and vital international transport hubs.
Ghana’s Ambassador in the United Arab Emirates has led a delegation of the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Consulate in Dubai to visit the two injured Ghanaians in hospital.
Their injuries are not critical and are expected to fully recover soon.
“We therefore urge calm as we continue to extend consular assistance and collaborate closely with host authorities,” the statement added.
The Ministry has revealed that they are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to engage with the appropriate authorities as required.
The Government of Ghana expresses its concern over the incident and conveys its thoughts to the injured individuals and their families.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates the Government of Ghana’s commitment to the protection and welfare of Ghanaian citizens wherever they may be.
The Government of Ghana is actively supporting ongoing consultations within the UN to pass a resolution seeking a cessation of hostilities.
According to the Ministry they are offering the necessary leadership and coordination with Ghana’s diplomatic Missions and will provide updates on the matter as and when the need arises.
Government has reiterated its call for Nationals in the Gulf region to always exercise heightened vigilance and comply with directives from Ghanaian Embassies and local authorities.
