Ahanta west: Nana Kobena Nketsiah V, the President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, has urged the Asemko community and the broader Ahantaland region to embrace peace amid ongoing chieftaincy conflicts that have adversely affected the community's development.
According to Ghana News Agency, the President highlighted the detrimental impact of ongoing chieftaincy struggles during a visit to the community with Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson and other officials. The visit followed a violent incident that resulted in one individual being beheaded and significant property destruction. Nana Kobena Nketsiah V expressed concern over the community's actions, noting that previous incidents, such as an Abusuapanin being partially blinded by an acid attack, reflect poorly on the community's heritage.
Homes in the community have been burned down due to the conflict, leading to widespread displacement. Schools have been closed, and many families are now seeking refuge in neighboring areas. The longstanding leadership conflict between the Asemko and Butre communities, which share a traditional leader, Nana Agyeibu Tiah, escalated into violence last week following his visit to Asemko, provoking an attack from a rival faction.
The Western Regional Security Council, under the leadership of Minister Joseph Nelson, assessed the damage in the community. Municipal Chief Executive Ebenezer Aidoo is compiling a list of displaced individuals, including schoolchildren affected by the unrest. Authorities are actively pursuing justice, with directives issued to security forces to apprehend those responsible for the violence.
Madam Mavis Kuukua Bissue, the Member of Parliament for the area, has called for peace and an end to the disputes, emphasizing the need to position the Ahanta West constituency for future investment opportunities. Meanwhile, security personnel have been deployed to maintain order and protect the community.
