Effiduase (E/R), Aug 9, GNA - The people of Effiduase, in the New Juaben Traditional area, have honoured the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo for his role in controlling chieftaincy disputes in the Eastern Region. The Chief of Effiduase, Nana Okoawia Dwomo Babu II, cited the matured and unbiased handling of the chieftaincy dispute in the area by the Minister, which brought about peace and ensured his enstoolment as the substantive chief a year ago.

He said 93but for your dedicated action, there would have been bloodshed in the pursuance of a rightful heir to the Effiduase stool and many other areas in the region. A hallmark of your outstanding leadership style in addressing challenges".

Nana Dwomo Babu, on behalf of the Chiefs and people of the area, presented a rich kente cloth and sandals to the Minister, as a sign of appreciation, at a ceremony to mark the first anniversary of his enstoolment, at Effiduase near Koforidua, over the weekend. He recalled that, last year, prior to his enstoolment, there was unrest surrounding the process, but Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, who was then the Regional Minster, put in measures to ensure a peaceful installation and a lasting peace to the area. The New Juaben Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr Alex Asamoah was also presented with a kente cloth, for his contribution towards the development of the area. Mr Ofosu-Ampofo observed that, the government recognized the chieftaincy institution as a partner in development and would always support the chieftaincy, which had a stake in the better Ghana agenda. He said as a people, it was important to respect the tradition and norms that had guided the chieftaincy institution since time immemorial, to lift its image and not to tarnish it with disputes, which had become synonymous with chieftaincy. Mr Ofosu-Ampofo thanked the Chiefs and people of Effiduase and assured them of government's support in building the necessary structures that would enhance the image of chieftaincy in the country.