Resolve all legal disputes before new Ga Mantse's coronation

Accra, April 5, GNA - President John Agyekum Kufuor has counselled the Ga Traditional Council to peacefully resolve all disputes over the enstoolment of a new Ga Mantse.

He said it was his wish that there should be peace and harmony in the Ga State.

He gave the advice when a delegation of the Traditional Council led by Nii Oblempong Kojo Ababio V, Ngleshie Mantse, called on him to officially invite him to the coronation of Nii Tachie Tawiah III, as the new Ga Mantse, fixed for Saturday, April 14.

President Kufuor told the delegation that he has been made aware of a matter before the Regional House of Chiefs with regard to the Ga Stool and that he wanted to know how the Council intended to solve this so that all sides would be at peace to welcome the new Ga King. "You need to assure me, so that when I come, there should be no doubt about the occasion."

The Daatse, who are the Kingmakers of the Ga Stool, have distanced themselves from the installation of Nii Tachie Tawiah, known in private life as Dr Joe Blankson and have mounted a legal challenge of the legitimacy of his installation.

President Kufuor said he was not seeking to question the decision of the Council, regarding custom and substance of the selection, but was concerned about the legalities of it.

He said once a matter was before the Judicial Authority, all were enjoined to observe the due process of the law.

He said all impediments must, therefore, have to be removed before he could join the Ga Traditional Area, with the authority of the State, to share in the joy of the enthronement.

Nii Ababio assured President Kufuor that the Council would do everything to settle the legal wrangling before the date set for the coronation.

He stated that the nomination and subsequent installation of Nii Tackie Tawiah, who is a grandson of King Tachie Tawiah was properly done and with due regard to custom by the Council. The delegation also conveyed their gratitude to President Kufuor for his support during the funeral of the Former Ga Mantse, Nii Amugi. 05 April 07