Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of Ghana’s National House of Chiefs, has firmly denied accusations from Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), that he is showing bias toward the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Asiedu Nketiah made the claim during a campaign event in Odumase, Asante Akim Central, suggesting that Ogyeahoho's alleged partisanship threatens his neutrality and may affect his role in mediating Ghana's political landscape.
Asiedu Nketiah asserted that Ogyeahoho’s involvement in partisan politics could undermine the credibility of the House of Chiefs, an institution vital to Ghana's democratic process. He emphasized that neutrality is essential for chiefs to effectively mediate national issues, especially during times of political tension.
In response, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II addressed the allegations publicly, challenging Nketiah to provide concrete evidence if he truly believes these accusations are warranted. “If there is proof of my political alignment, he is free to take legal action,” Ogyeahoho stated. “The Supreme Court has outlined guidelines for chiefs, and as President of the National House of Chiefs, I uphold these standards strictly. If I were campaigning for a political party, anyone could document it and present the evidence to the authorities.”
Ogyeahoho further questioned the basis of Asiedu Nketiah’s claims, reiterating his adherence to the impartial role expected of him and the entire House of Chiefs. He pointed out the accessibility of mobile phones and cameras in modern society, suggesting that if there were any instances of him visibly supporting a political party, it would have been recorded by witnesses and shared widely.
The National House of Chiefs holds an esteemed place in Ghanaian society, representing traditional authority while acting as a neutral body that provides counsel on national matters. The House has historically refrained from political endorsements, and its leaders are expected to remain impartial, a stance Ogyeahoho emphasized as critical for maintaining public trust.
The accusations and Ogyeahoho’s emphatic denial come at a sensitive time, as Ghana gears up for a pivotal election season. Political tension has increased, and the impartiality of national institutions is under intense scrutiny from both citizens and political groups. Ogyeahoho’s rebuttal underscores his commitment to preserving the nonpartisan reputation of the House of Chiefs, ensuring it continues to serve as a balanced mediator in Ghana’s political process.
This incident highlights the broader issue of the role of traditional authorities in Ghanaian politics and the pressures they face to remain neutral amidst partisan competition. As Election Day nears, the call for evidence and transparency regarding allegations like these may set a precedent for how traditional leaders navigate their roles in a politically charged atmosphere.
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