Chiraa: Mr Kofi Manu, the Administrator of the Dormaa Customary Land Secretariat in the Bono Region, has issued a stern warning to vigilante groups and bodybuilders, commonly known as "Machomen," against participating in land guard activities. He stressed that the new Land Act 2020 (Act 1036) criminalizes such activities and imposes severe penalties on those involved.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Manu made these remarks during an interview at a sensitization forum held in Chiraa, within the Sunyani West Municipality. The forum aimed to educate the public on the provisions of the Land Act 1036, which prescribes a minimum of five years imprisonment and a maximum of 15 years for individuals acting as land guards.
The Dormaa Customary Land Secretariat organized the forum to inform people about its functions as recommended by the Act. Mr Manu advised potential land buyers and estate developers to consult the secretariat when purchasing land within the Dormaa Traditional area, which includes Bomaa, Abesim, and Chiraa. He highlighted the issue of land scarcity due to population growth, leading to illegal practices like multiple land sales, and warned that failing to consult the secretariat could result in significant risks for buyers.
Mr Manu also reminded farmers working on Dormaa stool lands that they do not have the authority to sell these lands. He emphasized that this act is a serious offense under the Land Act, with offenders facing possible imprisonment.
Mrs Georgina Rockson, the Bono Regional Director at the Office of the Administrator of Stool Lands, highlighted the mandatory requirement for property and land owners to pay ground rent. She warned that non-payment constitutes a legal offense and urged compliance to avoid legal consequences.
Mr Awuah Missah, the Head of the Physical Planning Department at the Sunyani West Municipal Assembly, cautioned the public against constructing residential buildings without approval from the department. He stated that estate and land developers must meet specific conditions and obtain building permits from the Assembly before commencing construction. Failure to do so could result in the demolition of unauthorized buildings. Mr Missah urged compliance to prevent potential complications.
