By Kingsley Mamore
Dambai(O/R), April 30, GNA – The All Regional Queenmothers Association has engaged the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ-Ghana) to strengthen collaboration on traditional leadership, legal rights, and institutional cooperation within Ghana’s chieftaincy system.
The visit aimed to address challenges limiting queenmothers’ effective participation in traditional governance. Members highlighted restrictions in some traditional councils, particularly barriers posed by male paramount chiefs that hinder their involvement in decision-making.
Association President, Nana Otubea II, Paramount Queenmother of the Nkonya Traditional Area, revealed that the group is exploring legal and constitutional options to secure representation in the National House of Chiefs. She maintained that their constitutional recognition and state support justify inclusion in formal governance structures, adding that consultations are ongoing and the next phase of advocacy will be announced soon.
Rognaa Salma Chaana Abdul-Razak, Queenmother of the Sinq Traditional Area, called for dedicated legal aid for women facing discrimination and institutional barriers. She emphasized the need to extend equality principles into traditional systems, noting that excluding women undermines community decision-making. She also advocated capacity-building initiatives and stricter enforcement of the Affirmative Action framework.
Deputy CHRAJ Commissioner, Madam Mercy Larbi, acknowledged progress in women’s leadership but stressed the need for sustained efforts to ensure meaningful participation. She cautioned against reducing affirmative action to quotas, urging a focus on creating real opportunities for capable women. She also encouraged queenmothers to mentor young women.
CHRAJ Commissioner, Mr Joseph Whittal, welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to closer collaboration. He noted that CHRAJ’s legal officers nationwide could support traditional authorities and assist with legal interpretation and enforcement issues. He added that national governance platforms could be used to escalate concerns raised by the Association.
Mr Whittal assured the queenmothers of continued dialogue and technical support to enhance their role in traditional governance.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah /Audrey Dekalu