The Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council summoned Bafour Owiredu Agyarko Minta II, the Ankobeahene of the Begoro Stool, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) voiced surprise at this action.
The chief is alleged to have supported NDC presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama on 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 shame.
The petitioners claimed that during Mahama’s visit, the Ankobeahene, speaking on behalf of Begoro’s traditional chiefs, supported Mahama.
They said the chief also prayed to the gods to oppose the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) “breaking the 8” slogan and to remain vigilant against suspected vote-rigging.
If found guilty, the petitioners demand that the chief be stripped of all authority, that his actions be declared invalid, a public apology, and customary punishments.
Responding to the summons in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM on Tuesday, NDC’s Eastern Regional Chairman, Mark-Oliver Kever, stressed that chiefs have previously backed candidates and advised their people to vote for their favorite leaders.
He also speculated about the summons’ possible purpose, saying it might be to sow terror or lessen Mahama’s increasing appeal.
