Chieftaincy Tensions Force Abrupt Cancellation of Parliamentary Delegation’s Visit to Kasoa

A high-level engagement between Ghana’s Parliamentary Affairs Committee and traditional leaders at the Kasoa Odupong Ofaakor Palace was abruptly called off on Thursday, November 5, 2026, following escalating tensions tied to an unresolved chieftaincy dispute.

The parliamentary delegation—accompanied by the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, the Municipal Chief Executive, and other local dignitaries—visited the palace in the Awutu Senya East Municipality of the Central Region to formally invite traditional leaders to a scheduled youth engagement program.

Rival Factions Spark Uncertainty

Upon arrival, the delegation encountered two rival factions gathered at separate locations to prepare for the event, creating immediate logistical and security concerns over the appropriate venue:

• The Palace Faction: Assembled at the traditional palace under the leadership of Nai Kwabena Atopi, identified as the Royal Custodian of the stool.

• The Rival Faction: Gathered at the hall of the late chief’s house under the leadership of Nai Joe.

Fearing a potential clash between the opposing groups, security personnel swiftly intervened and escorted the parliamentary delegation away from the palace premises. Consequently, the committee cancelled all planned activities for the day.

Calls for Peace and Unity

Speaking to the media in the wake of the incident, the Omankrado of Kasoa Odupong Ofaakor, Nana Darko Ankrah, voiced deep disappointment over the confusion. He stressed that official engagements involving traditional authorities rightly belong at the palace rather than in private residences or alternative halls.

Nana Darko Ankrah urged the rival factions to set aside their differences, embrace peace, and pursue an amicable resolution to the chieftaincy dispute for the greater good of the community.

Local stakeholders, including members of the Asafo Group, also condemned the disruption. Expressing strong concern over the conduct of some traditional figures, they appealed for responsible leadership and swift reconciliation to restore unity and stability to Kasoa.