Omanghana
Sekou Nkrumah, host of The Last Word, has cautioned political and traditional leaders against using chieftaincy and Ghana’s cultural heritage to promote ethnic superiority, political control or national division.
Speaking during a discussion on the role of traditional institutions in modern Ghana, Nkrumah said chieftaincy remains an important pillar of African identity and should continue to play a meaningful role in national development.
He maintained, however, that culture must remain progressive and responsive to changing social conditions. Traditional authority, he said, should unite communities and promote peaceful coexistence rather than become a source of fear, intimidation or exclusion.
Nkrumah noted that Ghana is home to many ethnic groups with distinct histories and traditional institutions. He therefore warned against elevating the customs, leaders or historical achievements of one group above those of others.
According to him, every Ghanaian must feel protected and respected by the country’s traditional leadership, regardless of ethnicity or place of origin.
He compared chiefs to parents whose responsibility is to provide safety, guidance and support to all people under their authority. Traditional leaders, he argued, must not be used to threaten citizens or deepen tensions between communities.
Nkrumah also acknowledged the rich political history, military strength and anti-colonial resistance associated with the Asante Kingdom. He said these historical contributions deserved recognition and respect but should not be transformed into claims of tribal supremacy.
He warned that the political manipulation of traditional influence could undermine national cohesion and create unnecessary hostility among ethnic groups.
The broadcaster further called for a national conversation on how Ghana can integrate chieftaincy and traditional values more effectively into its governance system.
He said academics, political leaders, traditional authorities and citizens must openly discuss the place of indigenous institutions in national administration instead of continuing to rely almost entirely on governance models inherited from the West.
Nkrumah argued that systems rooted in African history and culture could contribute to more inclusive and locally relevant forms of governance if they are carefully developed to protect equality, human rights and national unity.
He also criticised politicians who exploit tribal identities to gain electoral or partisan advantage. According to him, such practices damage relationships between communities and distract attention from the conduct of the specific individuals responsible.
He urged critics to identify and challenge political actors promoting divisive agendas instead of condemning entire ethnic groups or traditional institutions.
Nkrumah stressed that Ghana’s cultural diversity should remain a source of collective strength. He said chieftaincy would retain its relevance only if it continued to evolve, defend citizens and promote unity across ethnic and political boundaries.
Source: Omanghana
