In the last decade, several Members of Parliament (MPs) in Ghana have faced bans from traditional authorities for allegedly disrespecting chiefs, undermining traditional customs, or engaging in activities that threaten the integrity of the chieftaincy institution. These bans, often accompanied by rituals and prohibitions, highlight the complex relationship between traditional power structures and elected officials in the country.
Aowin MP, Oscar Ofori Larbi, Banned for Alleged Falsehoods and Illegal Mining
The Aowin Traditional Council recently banned its MP, Oscar Ofori Larbi, from entering Aowin land. The council accused Larbi of spreading false stories against the paramount chief and involvement in illegal mining activities in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve. A ritual involving the slaughter of a sheep and the pouring of libation was performed to invoke the gods against Larbi if he disobeys the ban.
Atebubu/Amantim MP, Sanja Nanja, Banned for Insulting Queen Mother
In 2016, the Atebubu Traditional Council banned Sanja Nanja, the MP for Atebubu/Amantim, from visiting the Omanhene’s palace. The ban was imposed after Nanja allegedly insulted the queen mother of the area on FM radio. The council also prohibited sub-chiefs from attending events organized by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government if the MP was present.
Agona East MP, Queenstar Maame Pokuah Sawyerr, Banned for Alleged Defamation
Queenstar Maame Pokuah Sawyerr, the Agona East MP, was banned from Agona Duakwa in 2020 for allegedly defaming the Chief of Agona Duakwa, Nana Kojo Amuakwa V. The chief claimed that Sawyerr falsely stated she had given him money for a development project that he failed to deliver. Nana Amuakwa V denied receiving the funds and considered the MP’s statements as defamation.
Ahanta West MP, Ebenezer Kojo Kum, Banned Following Supporters’ Disparaging Remarks
The Upper Dixcove Traditional Council banned Ebenezer Kojo Kum, the Ahanta West MP, after his supporters denigrated the Omanhen, Nana Hema Dekyi, in leaked audio recordings. The council accused the MP’s supporters of using offensive language to ridicule the paramount chief. A ritual was performed to invoke curses on those behind the audio, and the MP was banned from campaigning in the area.
These instances underscore the significant influence that traditional authorities wield in Ghana and their willingness to take action against politicians who they believe have disrespected them or undermined their authority. The bans raise questions about the balance of power between traditional leaders and elected officials and the potential impact on political representation and development in the affected constituencies.
