Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagin, the speaker of parliament, has emphasized the importance of traditional leaders in the nation’s progress and urged them to actively participate in the advancement of their traditional regions.
He called on chiefs, queens, and other traditional leaders to speak candidly and openly with the government and its leadership about matters that impact their regions’ progress.
According to the Speaker, “Talk to us, the chiefs, and about us, to shift the political discourse from deception to development.”
“The most powerful institution in this country is still the traditional authorities,” he continued, “and I expect you to play a significant role in body politics and as guardians of Ghana’s abundant resources.”
At the Takopo Traditional Area’s Wilaa Festival, which has as its theme “Nuoriyeni, Maarong Aneng Maaluu (Unity, Peace and Development),” Speaker Bagbin, who was honored last year as the Tengmaale Naa, Development Chief, made the plea.
“The country is regressing faster than the people think it is progressing,” the speaker noted.Foreigners brought in by citizens are destroying our farms, and we are unable to provide for our children at school. Despite this, we go on every radio and television station every morning to defend our position and explain why our children are only given grain for a week.
He questioned why some powerful people were indifferent to the plight of the underprivileged, and he claimed that this had led to the majority of young people making excuses in everything they did.
These days, there is no honesty, no sincerity, and no regard for elders. And the decline of our culture, customs, and values may be the cause of all of these.
Referencing the Greek philosopher Socrates’ dictum that “an unexamined life is not worth living,” the speaker clarified that leaders must engage in a thorough self-examination and consider their own goals for the nation.
“In this country, almost everything has gone awry,” he stated.
According to Speaker Bagbin, the nation’s traditional leaders need to be reminded that their culture is what made them unique and what ties them to progress.
“As Ghanaians, we should be mindful of what we accept in our culture in the name of globalization and human rights,” the Speaker added, seemingly referring to the controversy surrounding the anticipated presidential assent to the anti-gay, lesbian queer activities bill.
In addition, Speaker Bagbin, who is a devout Catholic, cited 1 Corinthians 6:12, which states that “all things are lawful but not all are expedient.”
Speaking about the theme, the speaker said it was highly appropriate and motivating, and that festivals were used as powerful catalysts for progress, peace, and unity.
“Festivals are powerful instruments for peacebuilding and sustainable development. Festival celebrations give life and social living purpose. Any town without a celebration is, I dare say, a dying society,” he declared.
Therefore, he took advantage of the opportunity to encourage all Takpo Traditional Area boys and daughters to become active in matters of concern and show interest in the community’s progress.
