Togbe Afede XIV: Tribalism, Partisanship, and Lawlessness Hindering Ghana’s Development
The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, has issued a stark warning about the adverse effects of tribalism, extreme political partisanship, and lawlessness on Ghana’s progress.
Speaking at the 2024 Asogli Te Za Grand Durbar in Ho, he highlighted how these issues undermine national unity and development. “While real leaders are committed to uniting their people, here in our country, everything is tribalised or politicised,” he lamented, citing reactions to recent natural disasters, including tidal waves in southern Volta, as examples of the divisive trend.
Togbe Afede XIV argued that the erosion of truth and the over-politicisation of society have fostered greed and corruption, which he described as the greatest obstacles to development. “Our leaders have become more focused on personal wealth than national progress,” he said, likening their behavior to a modern-day scramble for resources akin to colonial exploitation.
He sharply criticised the country’s political system, stating, “Our democracy has become an enterprise that benefits a few. Ghana has become like an orphan child, exploited by those entrusted with her care. Corrupt officials are like termites, eating away at the foundations of our development.”
Togbe Afede XIV also called out self-serving politicians, describing them as “wolves in sheep’s clothing.” However, he expressed optimism that, “By the grace of the good Lord, we shall recognise the bad ones in their disguise.”
Lawlessness and Its Consequences
The revered traditional leader pointed to rising lawlessness and indiscipline as serious societal issues, attributing them to poverty and a lack of accountability. He cited armed robbery, mob justice, and recent violent incidents, including the killing of students and a prison officer, as alarming indicators of Ghana’s current state.
“These are all the results of suffering, of poverty, and consequential lawlessness,” he said, adding that such challenges threaten the nation’s stability despite its potential for greatness.
The Impact of Dishonesty and Corruption
Togbe Afede XIV stressed the dangers of dishonesty and a lack of transparency in public affairs. He shared his personal experience of returning an undeserved ex-gratia payment, which was met with a campaign of vilification and falsehoods. “With the complicity of the Council of State secretariat, the impression was given that I was an absentee member of the Council,” he revealed.
He warned that such dishonesty discourages foreign investment. “Investors feel unwelcome except in places where the law works and where discipline is upheld,” he stated.
A Call for Leadership and Accountability
Togbe Afede XIV concluded with an urgent call for leadership rooted in truth, justice, and the rule of law to steer Ghana back on course. “We need leaders who prioritize the collective good over personal gains,” he urged, emphasizing that Ghana’s youthful and peace-loving population deserves better.
“Ghana has the potential for greatness,” he affirmed. “But dishonesty, partisanship, and lawlessness are grave threats to our future.”
Source: myjoyonline.com
