The people of Atuabo in the Ellembelle District have taken a dramatic step, cutting off all customary services to their Paramount Chief, Awulae Amihere Kpanyinli III, after years of what they call neglect and misrule.
In a rare show of unity, clan heads, kingmakers, elders, youth groups, and opinion leaders gathered at a news conference in the coastal town to announce their decision. Backed by official statements signed by representatives of all seven clans, the Assembly Member, and leading elders, the community laid out nine sweeping charges against the chief.
Assembly Member Roger Ofori Zogblah, flanked by Youth Leader John Ketibuah and Safohene Albert Kwame Blankson, accused Awulae Kpanyinli of abandoning his responsibilities and allowing Atuabo to fall into decline. “The bond of trust has been broken,” Mr Zogblah declared.
The allegations include:
- Failure to account for proceeds from a 150-acre community coconut plantation.
- GH¢300,000 from Ghana Gas unaccounted for.
- The alleged installation of a non-citizen as signatory to a community bank account.
- Years of silence on youth unemployment despite his board role at Ghana National Gas Company.
- A market closed for seven years after tenants were evicted for renovations that never came.
- Abandonment of self-help toilet projects, two of which now lie in ruins.
Residents also cited a lack of town meetings for five years, intimidation at the 2024 Kundum festival, disrespect during funeral rites, and an “autocratic” leadership style that has deepened divisions.
Copies of the community’s resolution have been sent to the Chief of Staff, the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, the National House of Chiefs, security agencies, and other key authorities.
According to the Council of Elders, the move is not only about suspending services but also about preventing the chief from reasserting control. “His actions have departed from the customs and traditions of our forefathers,” their statement read. “This step is necessary to restore peace and unity in the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area.”
Stay tuned.