Traditional authorities in the Okaikwei North Municipality have publicly dissociated themselves from a planned youth demonstration demanding the removal of the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Christian Tetteh Badger, describing the action as ill-considered and a potential threat to peace and stability.
Addressing a press conference at Achimota, the Chief of Achimota, Nii Ayi Bonte Adams II, speaking on behalf of the Chiefs, Queen Mothers, and opinion leaders of the Municipality, said it had come to their attention that some youth groups were organising a demonstration scheduled for Friday, December 19, 2025, to call for the removal of the MCE.
He stated unequivocally that the traditional authorities do not support or agree with either the demonstration or the demands being made by the organisers, stressing that the decision to seek the removal of the MCE had not been subjected to broad consultation or deliberation among key stakeholders, including traditional leaders.
The traditional authorities also referenced a public appeal by the Member of Parliament for Okaikwei North, Theresa Lardi Awuni, who had called on the youth to suspend the planned protest to allow for further discussions aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution.
They described the MP’s call as appropriate and responsible, but expressed concern that the organisers of the demonstration had ignored the directive, which they described as an act of disrespect and insubordination to the office of the MP.
Nii Ayi Bonte Adams II, said the Chiefs and opinion leaders had therefore appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to intervene swiftly to halt the planned demonstration in the interest of public order and harmony within the Municipality.
According to the traditional authorities, any grievances the youth may have should be channelled through dialogue, noting that the youth had been invited to immediately seek an audience with the Chiefs, Queen Mothers, opinion leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss their concerns, if any exist.
They further emphasised that the Municipality is not a political party structure but operates under the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, adding that issues concerning the MCE and the administration of the Municipality are a shared responsibility involving local government authorities, traditional leaders, and religious bodies.
As such, they argued, no single group has the mandate to unilaterally take decisions of such magnitude.
The Chiefs expressed regret that the youth had, in their view, chosen to disregard the collective authority and guidance of the traditional rulers, the MP, and the NDC constituency executives, warning that the decision to proceed with the demonstration constituted a direct challenge to established authority and posed a risk to peace and stability in the area.
In light of the situation, the traditional leaders said they had resolved to take firm and decisive measures to prevent the demonstration from taking place on their lands and issued a directive cautioning respectable youth against participating in the planned protest.
They called on residents and stakeholders to prioritise peace, unity, development, and to respect both traditional authority and the democratic processes that govern the Municipality.
The Chiefs also urged the youth to pursue constructive engagement within established frameworks to address any grievances.
The Chiefs called on the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to take note of their position and to support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and order in the Okaikwei North Municipality.
