By Savannah Pokuaah Duah
President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has stated that his government will not politicize every aspect of governance, particularly the chieftaincy institution.
Speaking at the Western Regional House of Chiefs on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, President Mahama emphasized his administration’s commitment to respecting and including traditional authorities in national development planning.
“My government will never attempt to politicize or undermine the chieftaincy institution. We will not impose party loyalists on traditional councils, and we will not engage in the divisive manipulation of stool disputes. Instead, we will pursue a policy of consultation, respect, and local inclusion,” President Mahama stated.
The President highlighted his government’s efforts to address pressing national issues, including illegal mining. He said, “This week, the Minister inaugurated the second batch of 530 Blue Water Guards at the Zindibo Naval Base, marking a giant step in our quest to eradicate illegal mining from our water bodies.”
Furthermore, he outlined the government’s strategy to combat illegal mining, which includes:
- Implementing the Responsible Cooperative Mining Skills Development Programme (COMSTEP) to offer alternative livelihoods to people in mining communities.
- Promoting community mining as a legal alternative to galamsey.
- Empowering the Forestry Commission and the EPA to enforce environmental laws.
- Establishing an Environmental Restoration Fund to rehabilitate degraded mining lands.
Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to decentralizing opportunities and resources, stating, “Since our government came into office, we made it a policy to transfer 80% of our District Assembly Common Fund to the districts.” He urged traditional leaders to take an interest in the work of District Assemblies and to collaborate in ensuring a brighter future for all Ghanaians.
In his address, the President emphasized the need for unity of purpose and national renewal, saying, “Ghana stands at a crossroads. The challenges we face demand unity of purpose and national renewal. As President, I am committed to building a society anchored on fairness, opportunity, and shared prosperity.”
