A long-standing chieftaincy dispute in Kwahu has taken a dark turn, with a rival chief being enstooled by a faction of Kwahu Chiefs, sparking fears of potential troubles in the area.
The development has escalated tensions in the traditional capital, Abene, with residents calling for swift intervention by the authorities.
At the heart of the dispute is Daasebre Akuamoah Agyapong II, the embattled Kwahumanhene, who has reaffirmed his legitimacy, citing his gazetting by the Eastern Region House of Chiefs.
His position is further bolstered by a pending court case challenging his earlier destoolment and the acting Abetifihene.
The court’s verdict is expected on January 28th.
However, a faction of Kwahu Chiefs has gone ahead and enstooled a rival chief, sparking outrage and concern among residents.
Over the weekend, armed thugs, allegedly backed by some chiefs, forcefully took over the Esono Gyimah palace, the seat of the Kwahumanhene.
The incident has left residents in fear, with many calling for calm and restraint.
The situation has been further complicated by allegations that armed policemen from the Eastern North command stood and watched while the palace was broken into.
The police had earlier deployed personnel to the town to maintain order and prevent any potential breaches of peace but withdrew their men, leaving the community in the hands of armed thugs.
The Kwahu chieftaincy dispute has been ongoing for months, with both sides accusing each other of illegitimacy.
The dispute has already led to clashes and tensions in the community, with some chiefs and heads of families questioning the legitimacy of the recent enstoolment.
An influential political figure is alleged to be the mastermind behind the chaos.
As the situation continues to unfold, the people of Kwahu are anxiously waiting for a resolution to the dispute, which has cast a shadow over the community’s Easter festivities and reputation for industriousness.
With a court verdict expected soon, residents are bracing themselves for the outcome, fearing that it could further exacerbate the tensions.
Currently, it is feared that both factions are arming their supporters privately, and a major bloodbath is imminent.
