The constitutional reform draft committee of the 1930 Gonja constitution led by it’s chairman, Tingawura Seidu Abudu on 20th February, 2024 paid a courtesy call on the king and overlord of Gonja, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale(I) to seek for his blessing to kick start their mandate.
Lawyer Mohammed Osman Amin, National president of the Gonjaland Youth Association (GLYA) in his speech said it is necessary to seek the King’s blessings and advice to enable them to have a fruitful exercise since the kingdom belongs to him.
He stated that the committee after receiving the King’s blessing will kick start a consultative engagement with all paramount chiefs starting with chiefs and people of the Bole and Sonyo traditional areas respectively.
“Though not part of this committee, it became necessary to join this team because the GLYA as stakeholders have been involved”, he emphasized.
Dayanpewura Jingbele bemoans the rate at which people take to social media platforms to dis/misinform the public. he, therefore, pleaded with the overlord to call to order who soever that may want to make nasty comments on this constitutional review.
Prof. Adams Sulemana Achanso in an interview with Spear FM on behalf of the committee, said this constitutional review should be welcomed by all Gonjas and Gonjalanders because this is the first of its kind.
He added that this review became necessary to strengthen peaceful coexistence between neighboring ethnic groups, put to an end all chieftaincy and land disputes, and also promote the rich Gonja culture.
“It is not in our capacity as a committee to determine who becomes a chief, Clan head or any other portfolio in the Gonja kingdom hence the need for broader consultation and so therefore, all must contribute to this reform exercise,” He said.
The King and overlord expressed gratitude for the great steps taken so far and offered them his blessings. He also assured them of his continual support and that of the whole kingdom physically, spiritually, and financially.
He added, “I hope that the constitutional review fulfills its purpose and do not hesitate coming forth to me if facing any form of challenge in your work”.
The Constitutional Review Draft Committee is expected to be in Bole, Sonyo, and Kong traditional areas today and in the rest of the kingdom in the coming days and also to Kamankpan and other Gonja towns in the Bono east region.
Story by: Don-ninge Cajetan/Spear FM
