The Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council summoned Bafour Owiredu Agyarko Minta II, the Ankobeahene of the Begoro Stool, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) expressed surprise at this action.
The chief is alleged to have supported NDC presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama during a recent campaign tour, which is the reason for the summons.
Otweresohene/Odau, Okyeame Owusu, and Daasebre Ofosu Kwabi Ayebiahwe filed a petition accusing Nana Owiredu Agyarko of partisan politics and bringing the Begoro Stool into disrepute.
The petitioners claimed that during Mahama’s visit, the Ankobeahene, speaking on behalf of Begoro’s traditional leaders, supported Mahama.
They added that the chief prayed to the gods in opposition to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) “breaking the 8” slogan and urged watchfulness over purported vote-rigging.
The petitioners demand the removal of the chief’s tools, the annulment of his deeds, a public apology, and customary punishments in the event that he is found accountable.
In response to the summons, Mark-Oliver Kever, the NDC’s Eastern Regional Chairman, stressed that chiefs have historically endorsed candidates and urged their people to vote for their preferred leaders in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM on Tuesday.
In addition, he questioned the summons’ purpose, speculating that it might be to sow fear or lessen Mahama’s increasing appeal.
Chiefs’ endorsements and statements implying a preference for one candidate over another are not new. This phenomenon is not brand-new.
It is unexpected that someone would try to use this as a scapegoat because these are not new developments. We don’t know if it’s because of interest in His Excellency John Dramani Mahama or fear of someone rising to prominence. He said, “Someone may be shaking somewhere. Chiefs are applauding and longing for the arrival of this particular candidate.
