Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State and former President of the National House of Chiefs speaking during a meeting with former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC flagbearer, as part of his four-day tour of the Volta Region, underscored the urgent need for strong, selfless leadership, to ensure Ghana’s stability, peace, and development.
Highlighting the critical role of leadership, Togbe Afede pointed out that a selfless leader should aim at ensuring that all state institutions are very strong and capable of doing their work, asserting that it is only through such steps that the country to sustain its democracy, peace, stability, and progress.
“We need leaders that see themselves as a servant as opposed to lords over the people. And I think these are some of the difficulties that we have had over the years. Your Excellency, all of these mean that, as I said earlier, our people are truly suffering.
“They are suffering the consequences of lack of development, lack of progress, the consequence of mismanagement have become burdens on our people. And these are all threats to our stability”.
Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, President of Asogli Traditional Area, and former President of the National House of Chiefs
He lamented the lack of leadership across many African countries, including Ghana, where leaders often see themselves as “lords over the people” rather than servants committed to the cause of development.
The Agbogbomefia emphasized that the suffering of Ghanaians is a direct result of mismanagement and the absence of progress. He warned that the ongoing economic hardship threatens the country’s stability.
“If you have to be stable, if you have to guarantee our future peace, we must ensure that the majority of the people at least are happy. People who are happy value their lives and are less likely to resort to violence”.
Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, President of Asogli Traditional Area, and former President of the National House of Chiefs
Togbe Afede, however, expressed optimism that Ghana’s fortunes could be turned around with the right leadership and a collective dedication to the values enshrined in the national anthem, pledge, and the 1992 Constitution.
He pointed out that leveraging the country’s natural and agricultural resources, technology, and private sector capacity is essential to generating growth and creating employment, which will ultimately lead to a better standard of living for the masses.
Constitutional Reforms
In addition to calling for better leadership, Togbe Afede advocated for a comprehensive review of Ghana’s Constitution, which he believes has “outlived its usefulness”.
He commended former President John Dramani Mahama for his commitment to continuing efforts to amend the Constitution, emphasizing that such reforms are necessary to align the document with Ghana’s current development needs.
Turning his attention to the upcoming 2024 general elections, Togbe Afede remarked that the stakes are exceptionally high, as the election is about more than just the individual candidates.
“The forthcoming elections are not just about Your Excellency Mahama or His Excellency Bawumia; rather, it is about the soul of this country. So we have to examine carefully our needs and then decide accordingly. This coming election will be very critical indeed. It will define the way forward for our country”.
Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, President of Asogli Traditional Area, and former President of the National House of Chiefs
The Agbogbomefia called on all Ghanaians to unite, transcending tribal and political divisions, to defend the country’s democracy and ensure that the elections are free and fair.
He urged the chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana to commit herself to delivering a credible election, which he noted is essential for maintaining Ghana’s enviable peace.
As he concluded his speech, Togbe Afede thanked former President Mahama for his visit and wished him success as he continues his tour of the Volta Region.
“We would be happy to have you back again if your time permits,” he said, reiterating the Asogli State’s commitment to supporting efforts that promote the development and well-being of the Ghanaian people.
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