The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for the arrest and prosecution of chiefs allegedly involved in the sale of lands located along waterways and other flood-prone areas.
He made the remarks on Thursday, May 28, during a visit to communities affected by flooding following the spillage of the Weija Dam.
The flooding has submerged homes and shops in several parts of Weija, forcing many residents to evacuate their belongings and seek temporary shelter.
Addressing journalists during the tour, the Ga Mantse blamed recurring floods partly on the activities of some traditional leaders who allegedly allocate lands designated as waterways, wetlands, and green belts for private development.
According to him, such actions contribute directly to environmental degradation and worsen flooding during heavy rains and dam spillages.
“Chiefs who are selling lands in flood-prone areas and places that are supposed to remain green areas must be held accountable,” he stated.
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II further urged government agencies, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), and regional authorities to strictly enforce environmental and building regulations to prevent future disasters.
He emphasized that no one should be permitted to build in waterways, regardless of status or influence.
“We believe that everything is on course. What we are asking is that government agencies, the Regional Minister, and the MMDAs enforce the by-laws. Nobody should be allowed to build in waterways. If it is wrong, it is wrong, and we have to deal with it,” he said.
While acknowledging the hardship associated with demolishing structures built in unauthorised areas, the Ga Mantse insisted that enforcement remains necessary to protect lives and property.
“Demolitions are painful, and I sympathise with those affected, but we will have to enforce the laws because these situations continue to cause loss of life,” he added.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) says evacuation efforts are ongoing to relocate affected residents to safer areas as emergency teams continue to monitor the flooding situation.
