Mr Fiifi Boafo, the spokesperson for Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has clarified that Dr. Prempeh’s call for chiefs to express their views on political matters is not intended to infringe upon Ghana’s Constitution.

During a meeting with the Nungua Traditional Council, Dr. Opoku Prempeh emphasized the important role traditional leaders play in shaping Ghana’s development and encouraged them to voice their opinions on the country’s political landscape.

Mr Boafo further highlighted that Dr. Prempeh’s intention is to ensure collective development rather than undermine the Constitution. 

He stated that Dr. Opoku Prempeh seeks strong positions from traditional authorities on key issues like natural resource management to prevent politicians from making self-serving decisions.

The spokesperson reiterated that Dr. Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, is not asking chiefs to align with any political party. 

Instead, he wants them to contribute their perspectives as key stakeholders in Ghana’s development.

“He was very categorical about it. He said that he’s not asking any chief to put on political party colours; rather, he is asking for strong positions from our traditional authorities on proposals, such as how we handle our resources, for example, mineral resources. 

There must be a strong position from our traditional authorities indicating the things we should do as a country to help develop.”

“He’s of the view that, for example, the Constitution states that when resources are found on the land, they belong to the state, whereas if a chief gives out land for farming, the chief has shares in it. But when it comes to natural resources, the opportunity given to the chief is limited. Is that the best way to go?”

“These are some of the things he wants us to consider as a people moving forward, not just leaving everything in the hands of the political class who make decisions and implement them. Instead, traditional authorities, as key stakeholders, should have their voices heard and be involved in the development of our country,” he said.

Mr Boafo made these clarifications while speaking on Accra-based Citi FM