By Kekeli K. Blamey, GNA
Sogakope (V/R), July 13, GNA – Togbe Kuma III, the newly installed Sub-Divisional Chief of Sogakope in the Fievie Traditional Area, has pledged to promote unity, uphold the customs and traditions of the area, and champion development initiatives to improve the living conditions of residents.
The pledge was made during his outdooring and installation ceremony at Sogakope, where he was installed alongside Mama Kesena Liliasidzi II, the newly outdoored Queenmother of the area.
The ceremony was performed by the Mankralo and Awadada of the Fievie Traditional Area, Togbe Dagadu IV, on behalf of Togbega Agama Amata IV, the Paramount Chief and President of the Fievie Traditional Council.
He said the stool was not a symbol of personal honour but a sacred responsibility entrusted to him to serve both present and future generations with humility, fairness and dedication.
“I accept this responsibility with respect to our customs and with a clear mind for the work ahead,” Togbe said.
Addressing chiefs, elders, opinion leaders and residents, Togbe Kuma, said unity remained the greatest strength of every community, stressing that collective action was essential to advancing education, economic growth and peaceful coexistence.
“When we speak with one voice, we build schools that stand, markets that thrive and homes where our children feel safe,” he stated, adding that his leadership would be guided by listening, inclusiveness and consensus-building.
He pledged to administer justice fairly, settle disputes without favouritism and ensure that community resources were managed transparently for the benefit of all.
The newly installed chief also reaffirmed his commitment to preserving the rich customs and traditions of the Fievie Traditional Area while embracing innovative ideas capable of improving livelihoods and accelerating local development.
He appealed to the youth to contribute their energy, ideas and skills towards the progress of the community, describing them as active partners in development rather than leaders of tomorrow alone.
Togbe Kuma sought their continuous guidance and wisdom, saying their counsel would remain the foundation upon which he would build his leadership.
Togbe Atsuga Sogah II, the Dufiaga and Divisional Chief of Sogakope, congratulated the newly installed chief and reminded him that traditional leadership demanded sacrifice, humility and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.
He urged Togbe Kuma to remain loyal to the Amata Stool and Togbega Agama Amata IV, noting that the authority of all divisional and sub-divisional stools derived from the Paramount Stool and must be exercised in unity with it.
Togbe Atsuga Sogah further charged him to serve all people without discrimination, maintain an open-door leadership style and work closely with traditional authorities, assembly members and other stakeholders to promote peace, education, healthcare, employment and sustainable development in Sogakope.
He also called on residents to support the new chief with their respect, advice and prayers to enable him to discharge his responsibilities effectively and contribute meaningfully to the progress of the community.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell/ Christabel Addo