Tema: Two indigenous groups from Tema, namely the Tema Obuade Wekunukpai (Tema Traditional Clan Heads) and the Tema Youth Association, have made a formal appeal to President John Dramani Mahama, requesting the appointment of native individuals as district heads of District Assemblies within the traditional area.
According to Ghana News Agency, these groups submitted separate letters to the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), emphasizing that an indigenous party member should be considered for the roles of metropolitan, municipal, and district chief executive officers on lands governed by the Tema paramountcy. The groups argued that an indigenous party member possesses a deeper understanding of the local culture, traditions, challenges, and aspirations, making them better equipped to address community issues effectively.
Currently, the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) stands out as the only district where natives are acknowledged and appointed to such positions, and the groups have expressed a desire for this practice to continue. The Tema Youth Association pointed out that while Ashaiman is entirely Tema land, and with 70 percent of Tema West and indigenous communities such as Zenu, Kubekro, Sasaabi, and Adigon falling under the Tema Traditional Council, natives are frequently overlooked for these appointments despite their contributions of land, language, and identity for the benefit of the state.
The groups further elaborated on their request, stating that effective representation and a comprehensive understanding of the local context are essential. An indigene of Tema, they asserted, would inherently possess knowledge of the community's history, culture, and challenges, enabling them to make informed decisions that would benefit the community. Moreover, they believe this approach would foster a sense of ownership and accountability among the local population.
