By Michael Foli Jackidy, GNA
Anyirawase (V/R), March 02, GNA – Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, has underscored the central role of culture and chieftaincy in national development, stating that no nation has ever progressed by despising its traditions and heritage.
Speaking at the commissioning and handing over of the renovated Awudome Traditional Council Hall at Anyirawase on Monday, Mr Bagbin said Ghana’s unique identity was anchored on respect for its customs and indigenous governance systems.
“My resolve to support Togbega and the Council in renovating this building stems from my belief in the need to strengthen the chieftaincy institution and build on the solid foundation laid by our forebears,” he stated.
The Speaker noted that beyond the colourful regalia and traditional ceremonies often associated with chieftaincy, the institution remained a vital pillar in Ghana’s governance architecture.
“Contrary to the parochial view of some people, chieftaincy means much more than the wearing of ceremonial regalia and dancing to soothing traditional music. It is the binding force that has held our nation and its people together for centuries. There is a lot to learn from it,” he said.
He added that the indigenous wisdom of traditional authorities had, over the years, contributed significantly to the country’s jurisprudence and dispute resolution systems, while promoting peace and stability at the grassroots.
Mr Bagbin assured the Council that he would collaborate with the Member of Parliament for Ho West, Mr Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, to provide the remaining fittings required to complete the renovation and construct the fence wall around the facility.
“Our wise elders say that when killing a snake, one must not stop at smashing its head. You only celebrate when the head is completely cut off. My son and I will only celebrate when this building becomes a fully conducive working place for our revered traditional leaders,” he said.
The Speaker also expressed appreciation to the chiefs and elders for their contributions to peace and development in the Awudome Traditional Area and pledged continued support for their efforts.
Mr Bagbin extended his condolences to the people of Awudome and the nation following the passing of Togbe Gobo Dake XII, Chief of Tsito-Awudome, who served for 41 years.
He recalled that before ascending the stool, the late Togbe Gobo Dake XII served as a personal pilot to Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, and described him as a celebrated national figure deserving of a befitting state-assisted funeral.
He appealed to the traditional authorities to formally notify the national leadership to enable the country to accord him a dignified farewell.
Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, commended the Speaker for spearheading the renovation of the Council Hall.
He noted that although the Volta Region had about 100 paramountcies, many lacked befitting council halls for their meetings.
“Awudome Traditional Council is privileged to have this facility through someone who has the development of Awudome at heart and who was enstooled as Togbe Nutefeworla Awudome I. This hall represents unity, authority, peace, and development,” he said.
Togbe Addai Kwesi Dzani XIII, Paramount Chief of the Awudome Traditional Area, also expressed gratitude to the Speaker and the MP for their support
He explained that the hall had previously served as both a traditional council chamber and a court but had fallen into a state that rendered it unfit for purpose.
According to him, the chiefs initially mobilised resources to commence renovation works, after which Mr Bedzrah stepped in to advance the project before the Speaker responded to their appeal and ensured its completion.
He said the occasion marked not only the commissioning of the renovated building but also the formal inauguration of the Traditional Council, the first in 20 years.
The ceremony was attended by traditional leaders, government officials, clergy, and members of the public.
GNA
Edited By: Maxwell Awumah/Linda Asante Agyei