The Chief of Gonjaland, Yagbonwura Bi-Kintu Jewu Soale, has imposed a ban on the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, prohibiting him from entering all palaces within the Gonja Kingdom.

This action has sparked concerns about the relevance and effectiveness of such practices in contemporary times.

Yagbonwura Bi-Kintu Jewu Soale's decision has also prompted questions regarding the impact of traditional customs on modern governance and societal norms in Ghana.

Here is a timeline of what GhanaWeb knows so far about the incident:

Yagbonwura's Decree

The Paramount Chief of Gonjaland, Yagbonwura Bi-Kintu Jewu Soale I, issued a decree on July 21 banning the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, from entering all palaces within the Gonja kingdom.

This decision followed what the Yagbonwura described as a breach of tradition and respect.

"The king will deny audience to any government delegation, political party, or visitor that includes Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor until he learns the ways of his royal tradition and respects the authority of the Yagbonwura. This statement is final and binding on all paramount chiefs within the Gonja kingdom,” his interpreters emphasized.

The chief did not give a reason for this directive.

Minister's press statement on meddling in chieftaincy issues in the area

In response, the minister released a press statement denying any involvement in chieftaincy affairs in Gonja and Damongo.

"As I have stated time and again, I have no interest in Damongo chieftaincy affairs whatsoever. As a bona fide Gonja Prince, I hold the revered chieftaincy institution, Yagbonwura Bi-Kintu Jewu Soale, and all other chiefs in high regard," he stated.

Minister's response to the ban

Abu Jinapor responded to the accusations, stating that the true reasons behind the Yagbonwura's actions were his refusal to facilitate the arrest of certain Gonja chiefs and his rejection of a request for a Land Cruiser vehicle, as reported by myjoyonline.com.

"The Yagbonwura, Bi-Kintu Jewu Soale, expressed displeasure and disappointment with me for not facilitating the arrest of certain Gonja Chiefs. He also requested a Land Cruiser vehicle from me, which I declined," he noted.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the ban will be enforced and what implications it will have on the relationship between the government and traditional leaders in the region and the need for a better understanding of the role of traditional institutions in modern Ghanaian society.

JKB/AE

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