Vice President of Ghana and the New Patriotic Party’s running mate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring an amendment to the 1992 Constitution to enhance the role of traditional authorities in national development.
During his constituency-focused tour of the Yapei Kusawgu and Salaga South constituencies in the Savannah Region, Dr. Bawumia reaffirmed his commitment to facilitating this change if elected President.
“Our traditional authorities play an important role in national development, but their ability to contribute even more has been restricted by the 1992 Constitution,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
He highlighted the need to amend Section 63 (D) of the Chieftaincy Act to restore more adjudicatory powers to traditional leaders, which he believes will enhance the justice delivery system.
The Vice President’s tour, aimed at engaging with local communities and understanding their needs, underscored the significance of empowering traditional authorities to play a more active role in governance and justice.
Dr. Bawumia’s proposal is expected to resonate with many who see traditional leaders as vital to the socio-cultural fabric of the nation.
This move aligns with Dr. Bawumia’s broader vision of leveraging traditional governance structures to complement formal state institutions, thereby fostering a more inclusive and effective system of governance.
The proposed amendment would enable traditional authorities to adjudicate on certain matters, thereby easing the burden on formal courts and ensuring quicker resolution of disputes at the local level.
