At the heart of this year’s celebration stands Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, whose decades of service, humility, and national vision continue to inspire admiration across Ghana and beyond.

Speaking at a key event over the weekend, the Minister who led a high-powered delegation, commended Togbe Afede for his unwavering leadership and deep-rooted commitment to peace, development, and cultural revival.

“Togbe Afede is not only a traditional leader, he is a national treasure. His wisdom, courage, and ability to unify people across political and ethnic divides make him an embodiment of the leadership Ghana needs,” the Minister stated.

To reinforce his support, the Minister donated GHS 10,000 towards the festival, describing the gesture as an expression of his deep respect for the Asogli State and its rich cultural heritage.

Welcoming thousands of residents and guests to the celebration, the Asogli Warlord and Dufia of Ho-Dome, Togbe Adzie Lakle Howusu XII, emphasized that this year’s festival is more than tradition, it is a rallying point for community renewal, youth involvement, and a bold vision for Asogli’s future.

“This is our time to come together, to reflect on who we are, what unites us, and how we can build a stronger, more prosperous Asogli State. We urge everyone to participate actively, this is your festival, your heritage, your future,” he declared.

The festival’s theme, “Bringing Our People Together in Unity and Purpose to Build a Generous and Prosperous Nation,” couldn’t have been more timely. In a Ghana yearning for cohesion and progress, Asogli’s example is a shining model, where culture meets development, and history meets hope.

In a major show of corporate responsibility and cultural partnership, Republic Bank Ghana contributed GHS 20,000 towards the celebration. Their donation not only underscores growing private sector interest in cultural investment but also reflects the bank’s belief in community-driven development.

“Supporting this festival is about more than sponsorship, it’s about partnering with communities to celebrate identity and stimulate growth. We are proud to be part of this transformative moment,” a bank representative noted.

From colourful durbars and ancestral rituals to youth parades and inter-community sports, the 2025 Asogli Yam Festival is proving to be not just a cultural event, but a powerful national conversation about leadership, legacy, and the future of Ghanaian tradition in a modern world.

As the drums beat louder and the kente flows brighter in Ho, one truth stands clear: Asogli is not just celebrating yams, it is celebrating a future grounded in culture, led with wisdom, and built on unity.

Source: Ivy Priscilla Setordjie

READ ALSO:

• Ablekuma North re-run: All troublemakers will be arrested and punished – Interior Minister
• Ghana Link refutes claims of broken-down scanners at Kotoka International Airport

He believes that the atmosphere at various polling stations in his kingdom reflects the sentiments of the electorate, eager for change of government.

“We think that the outcome of votes at places that we visited so far will reflect the will of the people”, he said when he toured some centers in his Kingdom after voting.

He commended the effective coordination of the voting process and collaboration among stakeholders at the various polling stations he visited.

“We’re happy about the orderliness and the commitment of all participants. Electoral Commission officials, party agents. I am so happy about all of that”, he explained.

He recommended adjusting the polling station setups to better respect the voters’ choices on the ballot during the voting process, suggesting that the arrangement should provide “a little secrecy but also transparency.”

Togbe Afede also raised concerns about the turnout of voters in Saturday’s polls, explaining that his expectations were not met.

The elections could record a little over 60% voter turnout considering the figures recorded at the end of polls.

Most of the polling stations we visited reported a turnout of just over 50%, with some electoral officers resting while awaiting the closing of polls at 5 PM. Some polling stations also had people in queues after 5 p.m. waiting to cast their ballots.

ALSO READ:

Damango EC office set on fire [Video]

We have performed abysmally – CPP

US Embassy commends Ghana for peaceful and successful elections

His remarks come amidst increasing scrutiny of recent judicial decisions, which he described as illogical and uninspiring.

The traditional leader’s comments follow criticism from former Supreme Court judge, Justice William Atuguba, who questioned the composition of the Supreme Court panel that ruled in favour of Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s suit challenging Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant.

Justice Atuguba described the majority ruling as “predictable,” given the makeup of the panel.

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the 9th Congregation of Ensign Global College in Kpong, Lower Manya Krobo Municipality, Togbe Afede lamented the state of the judiciary and its recent interpretations of the law.

He expressed disappointment with some of the decisions, noting that they have been far from inspiring and have caused concern among Ghanaians.

“It’s unfortunate that a former Supreme Court justice said the judiciary has become very predictable. It’s unfortunate,” he said.

“Some of the decisions that have been made by the judiciary have not been very inspiring. We want the judiciary to uphold the principles of fairness, freedom, and justice for all.”

Togbe Afede emphasised that the judiciary should be an institution that protects the rights and freedoms of the people and ensures fair justice.

However, recent developments, he argued, have raised questions about its integrity and the fairness of some rulings. He added that some judicial decisions seemed to defy logic, which has sparked public concern.

He concluded by calling for a judiciary that truly serves the people, protecting their rights and ensuring justice is fairly administered.

He urged that all institutions, especially the judiciary, should be free from partisan influence and work to uphold the rule of law and justice in Ghana.

The respected chief highlighted that the integrity of the electoral system is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the country.

During a public event, after members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) legal team paid him a visit on Monday, September 2, Togbe Afede emphasised that while peace is crucial, it is the fairness and transparency of elections that truly prevent violence and unrest.

He urged citizens to remain vigilant and to hold electoral bodies accountable to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted fairly.

Togbe Afede also pointed out that when elections are transparent and credible, the likelihood of disputes and conflicts significantly decreases.

He encouraged Ghanaians to prioritise the integrity of the electoral process, stressing that a fair election is the foundation of a peaceful society.

His remarks come amid rising political tensions ahead of the 2024 general elections, with various stakeholders calling for calm.

Togbe Afede’s emphasis on free and fair elections underscores the need for a robust and transparent electoral system to ensure peace and stability in Ghana.

“Why is everybody talking about peace during and after the elections, and nobody is talking about Free and fair elections, which will rather guarantee the peace we are all looking for,” he stated.

Source: Myjoyonline

Currently facing the threat of relegation, Hearts of Oak must secure a victory in their final game against Bechem United on Sunday at Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park to stay in the Ghana Premier League.

In an interview, Zakour, who led the club to victories in the CAF Champions League, Confederation Cup, and multiple Ghana Premier League titles, called on Executive Board Chairman, Togbe Afede XIV to dismiss Sowah Odotei, citing him as a major issue.

Zakour argued that, the General Manager, Delali Anku-Adiamah, will not be able to perform his duties effectively as long as Sowah Odotei remains on the board.

“The General Manager cannot work well for the club if Hon. Sowah Odotei is around. He must be sacked,” he said on Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

Hearts of Oak is currently 15th on the Premier League table with 42 points. Their crucial match against Bechem United is set to kick off at 15:00 GMT.

In his remarks, he asserted that the Ghanaian cedi would continue to face detrimental consequences as long as interest rates remained “unnecessarily high.”

The BoG recently highlighted forecasts indicating a potentially elevated trajectory, citing various factors such as potential adjustments in transport fares, utility tariffs, and higher fuel prices.

The Central Bank stated that some factors collectively contribute to economic pressures and could influence the country’s financial landscape.

However, in a piece dated April 11, 2024, Togbe Afede XIV expressed his belief that the cedi’s stability would significantly affect other prices, including transport fares, utility tariffs, and fuel prices.

He underscored the interconnectedness of various economic variables and the repercussions of interest rate policies on overall economic stability.

According to the respected chief, the persistence of unnecessarily high interest rates exacerbates the challenges faced by the cedi, amplifying its vulnerability to adverse consequences.

Togbe Afede XIV urged the central bank to take proactive measures and reassess its approach to interest rate management to mitigate the negative impacts on the currency’s stability.

“The truth is, all these variables are related. Whilst the policy rate is an important tool of monetary policy, its misuse, as in our case, can have damaging effects. As long as interest rates are kept unnecessarily high, our currency, the cedi, will continue to suffer adverse consequences, with pass-through effects on other prices, including transport fares, utility tariffs and fuel prices.”

“Persistent cedi depreciation has been a key factor in our energy (including power) sector problems. We have always felt the need to adjust prices, not because consumers were not paying enough, but because the cedi has been depreciating,” he said.

Currently, the demand for the dollar and the other major foreign currencies has surged, culminating in a sharp depreciation in recent times.

It is going for about GH¢14.50 to one US dollar, GH¢18.00 to one British pound in the retail market.

ALSO READ:

I will curse anyone if… – Hopeson Adorye warns NPP members [Listen]

See the top 11 diseases that killed people in Ghana in 2022 (LIST)

Voter registration: Dadieso Immigration assures tight border security to prevent foreigners

He stressed that being an individual who has the development of the country at heart, he would not hesitate to accept any offer to serve the nation.

Togbe Afede, however, indicated that he had not given any individual or group of people the mandate to champion his interest in the running mate position of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

This was contained in a statement issued by the Asogli State Council and signed by its Secretary, Stephen Tetteh.

The statement explained that a group under the umbrella name “Change Makers Forum” visited Togbe and pleaded with him to consider partnering with John Mahama in the upcoming general elections.

“A group of people who identified themselves as “Change Makers Forum” were the latest to approach Togbe to consider joining President Mahama as his running mate for the 2024 Presidential election.

Togbe responded that, as a patriotic citizen, he would not reject any opportunity to serve the country, but the choice of a running mate is the prerogative of the flag bearer who already knows him very well.

Togbe considers it a great honour that a group of well-intentioned professionals called on him to express their trust in him, and thus their desire for him to be the next Vice President of Ghana.

But Togbe has not mandated anybody or group to “lobby” for his choice as running mate”, stated Mr. Tetteh.

He, therefore, rendered an unqualified apology to all and sundry who may have been taken by surprise and embarrassed learning of the skewed news.

“The Asogli State Council would like to apologise to the chiefs, kingmakers and the people of Asogli, and all others for any shock and embarrassment they may have suffered.

“The office of the Agbogbomefia operates an open-door policy and is open to communication, feedback, and inquiries from all citizens and stakeholders. We encourage individuals or groups to reach out directly on any matters, concerns or suggestions that require attention”, it concluded.

ALSO:

Togbe Afede won’t reject NDC running mate position – Asogli State

Footballer struck dead by lightning in the middle of a match

Begoro chief summoned for endorsing Mahama

The conference is set to take place on the 12th and 13th of April 2024 at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

ADC stands as the premier global platform for meaningful discourse on Africa’s development and facilitates crucial conversations that shape the continent’s future.

Heads of state and influential figures, such as Kenyan President William Ruto, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Angolan President João Lourenço, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and Former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, are set to come together to share progressive policies, fostering partnerships for Africa’s development.

This year’s theme, Africa Delivers: Pragmatic Paths to Prosperity, spotlights the continent’s progress and potential amid global challenges, spanning vital sectors such as law, governance, international relations, economics, business, technology, environment, security, health, education, media, and arts.

The organizers are excited about the inclusion of a panel devoted to trading in and with Africa, a realm in which they believe Togbe’s wealth of knowledge and expertise is invaluable.

The panel will explore the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and its implications for the future of trade in Africa, and discuss how it can strategically address energy supply and transportation infrastructure challenges.

As the Executive Chairman of World Trade Centre Accra, and a member of the Board of the World Trade Centres Association, New York, the organizers believe Togbe’s “deep engagement in the field of trade and commerce” makes him an ideal panelist, and that, his leadership and contributions to the establishment of companies demonstrate his expertise in finance, economics, corporate advisory, and infrastructure development—all of which are crucial aspects of trade in Africa”.

They expressed their belief that Togbe’s insights will greatly enrich the discussion on the transformative potential of AfCFTA and sustainable trade partnerships and contribute to the collective dialogue on Africa’s development journey.

This assembly of prominent personalities highlights the event’s significance as a platform for dialogue and collaboration on practical solutions to propel the continent towards sustainable development, and underscores the importance of leveraging African leaders’ knowledge and experience in this regard.

Thus, the invitation of Togbe Afede XIV, who had been a participant at Harvard’s Annual Global Empowerment Meeting, not only honors his contributions to economic development in Africa but also provides a forum for him to share his vision for the continent and his insights into strategic approaches for overcoming infrastructure deficits and ensuring energy security.

The Harvard Africa Development Conference 2024 is poised to be a landmark event, offering actionable insights, and fostering partnerships that will be instrumental in unlocking Africa’s economic potential.

ALSO READ:

• Ghana would’ve filed for bankruptcy if it were a company – Togbe Afede

• Togbe Afede XIV writes: Bank of Ghana has failed us

Togbe Afede, a distinguished entrepreneur and highly respected traditional leader, ascended to the throne in 2003.

The annual festival has gained immense popularity in recent years, enchanting attendees with its vibrant traditions and cultural displays.

Embracing the occasion, Togbe Afede spoke at a recent coronation ceremony, emphasizing the festival’s role in promoting African traditional culture and prosperity.

The Agbogbomefia highlighted the growing reputation of Asogli and urged the chiefs and people to uphold and enhance it. “Asogli is receiving opportunities due to our rising prominence, and we must nurture it,” remarked Togbe Afede.

Steven Tetteh, Secretary to the State, confirmed that preparations were underway, with an official media launch scheduled in the coming weeks to kick off the festival.

The anticipated event will feature various highlights, including the ceremonial hailing of the new yam, a captivating tradition that gathers the entire community in a lively street procession.

The grand durbar, a popular spectacle, attracts political and non-political leaders as well as corporate organizations from near and far.

Tetteh revealed that Togbe Afede’s ascension to the throne solidified the festival’s role as a unifying platform for Asogli’s development. The planning committee is dedicated to delivering an even more impactful event this year.

Last year’s festival, which marked the return after a two-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, created waves with diverse activities such as an anti-corruption day celebration, a youth forum, and a conference for traditional leaders of Ewe communities in West Africa.

The GNA (Ghana News Agency) has received exclusive information about the 2023 lineup, including the launch of a foundation and an array of activities to showcase the tourism potential of the Volta Region.

During the event, Togbe Afede is expected to officially unveil the “Volta City” project, a captivating architectural design that has piqued the curiosity of visitors to the Asogli Palace since the last festival.

The ambitious project will feature numerous housing units nestled within a serene landscape in the Volta Region.

Togbe Afede XIV said the opposite is currently happening. 

According to him, a reduction in a promised coupon simply means a “haircut.”

In a 14-page opinion piece, the venerable chief lamented about the impact of the situation. 

He questioned how a country blessed with so many resources could be mismanaged into this state. 

“We are now faced with questions about debt sustainability and our ability to find the fiscal space to fund urgent and critical development needs. 

“Now, the fears about Ghana defaulting on its debt repayment have effectively materialised with the announcement of a domestic Debt Exchange Programme. 

“And we are making a mockery of ourselves talking ‘no haircuts’ when that is exactly the effect of reduction in promised coupon payments,” he said. 

Following the country’s worrying debt stock and interest payments, government has announced a domestic debt exchange programme. 

The programme which was announced by the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta on Sunday, December 4, is aimed at realigning some domestic bonds. 

This, when achieved, will give the government fiscal space ahead of the bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Mr. Ofori-Atta in a subsequent presser on Monday said the government was inviting “holders of domestic debt to voluntarily exchange approximately GH¢137 billion of the domestic notes and bonds of the Republic, including E.S.L.A. and Daakye bonds, for a package of New Bonds to be issued by the Republic.”

The domestic debt exchange programme, which is a Government initiative, seeks to classify domestic bonds into four categories to create fiscal space as part of preparations to qualify Ghana for an IMF facility.

The Minister also promised that there will be no haircuts on principals but the venerable chief disagrees.

The two administrators, who have been at Hearts for close to 11 years, have recently come under increased pressure from fans calling for them to step down from the club.

The two have been blamed for the team’s consistent underperformance, highlighted by their failure to qualify to the group stages of CAF tournaments.

Another Board Member, Dr. Nyaho Tamakloe, has been accused of instigating the unfair sacking of the club’s former coach, Samuel Boadu.

However, Odotei and Akambi have received huge boosts about their future with the club, as Togbe Afede XIV identified them as key members of his tenure at the club.

“I have been in leadership for many years now, I have founded many companies which I’ve led and I can say without any doubt, the likes of Akanbi and Odotei are very rare. Sometimes we don’t like in this country those who are forthright and speak the truth. Akanbi works with a passion that sometimes surprises me,” Togbe Afede said in a press conference.

Highlighting their importance, Togbe also indicated the heroics of Hearts’ 21st league title will have been impossible without the duo, and particularly heaped praise on Akanbi for the progress of work at Hearts’ Pobiman Complex.

READ ALSO

• Hearts of Oak: Samuel Boadu was sacked by Togbe Afede –…

• Official: Hearts of Oak unveil Slavko Matic as new head coach

“We’ve been having difficulties implementing our Pobiman project. We had a professional in charge of supervising that place, sometimes he could go for weeks without updating me on progress. So we told Akambi, ‘just help us. Make sure we finish Pobiman by the end of the year. Sometimes I call Akambi at 6:30am and he’s already at the site – at a time his critics are fast asleep.

“When it comes to ensuring value for money, I have not seen anybody like Akanbi and Odotei.

“We never knew Pobiman was so flood-prone, then we realised we had to invest big in drainage – something we had not factored into our plans. So we had an expert from one of the municipal assemblies who knew the area very well.

“He did a survey and gave us a voluminous report, with a cost of GHC2.5m. Immediately I told the board we can’t invest that sum into it and still complete the project, but under Akambi’s supervision we are working on the drainage for about GHC500,000 – 20% of the original estimate.”

Speaking to JoySports on the side of a press conference, Togbe Afede credited Dr. Tamakloe for being an ambassador of the club and making personal sacrifices to oversee progress at the Pobiman complex.

The Phobians were humbled 3-0 in their first leg of the second round of the CAF Confederations Cup against ASR Bamako on Saturday in Mali.

With the second leg scheduled to kick off at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, Mr Asabre has raised concerns about how the club has been managed in the past year.

Speaking on the Ultimate Sports Show on Asempa FM, a sad Asabre accused the board chairman of being the reason for the woes of the club.

READ ALSO

• CAF Confed Cup: Hearts of Oak thrashed 3-0 by ASR Bamako in Mali

• Ex-GFA boss Kwesi Nyantaky rates Ghana’s performance at 2014 World Cup

“Togbe Afede must be blamed for the woes of the club,” he said.

“He has appointed some people who know nothing about football to run the club. It is about time Akanbi and Odotei leave the club.

“The principles of the club are gradually deteriorating under the current management. We know football has evolved but this is Hearts of Oak and every fan knows the pedigree of the club but what is happening is unacceptable and embarrassing

“It is about time the NCC wakes up and demonstrates that they are not happy about what is happening,” he added.

Hearts of Oak in their last three games played in Africa have conceded 13 goals.

Togbe has been the majority shareholder of the club for the past decade. 

Having ended the 2021/22 football season with the FA Cup trophy, Hearts of Oak have dominated the media space for various reasons.

However, Mr Tandoh, who is a former Aduana Stars assistant coach, who has left the club citing a lack of appreciation by the board members says Togbe is just wasting his resources investing in the club.

READ ALSO

• Hearts of Oak players accused of smoking and drinking before matchday…

• Hearts of Oak: Winning five trophies is nothing – Samuel Boadu…

“The team knew I had written my resignation letter before the RTU game,” he told Asempa FM on the Ultimate Sports Show.

“I wasn’t appreciated and I wasn’t free to work and I feel Togbe Afede is wasting his money,” he added.

Despite the torrid campaign, Hearts of Oak finished in the 6th position with 48 points.

The Phobians will represent the country in the 2022/23 CAF Confederations Cup campaign having defended the FA Cup successfully.

According to him, it is not appropriate to receive the said amount when he already took monthly salaries for serving on the Council.

He provided these clarifications after members of the public reacted to news of whether or not he indeed followed through with his supposed refund and the rationale behind it.

In a press statement on Monday, the traditional leader explained that “I did not think the payment was made to trap me, as is being speculated.”

“I believe it was paid to everybody who served on the Council of State. However, I thought that extra payment was inappropriate for a short, effectively part-time work, for which I received a monthly salary and was entitled to other privileges. So, I was very uncomfortable with it,” he added.

The businessmen man says he explored ways to return the money which hit his account in July 2021, which he successfully effected on March 4, 2022.

“After weeks of trying, I obtained advice on how to refund inappropriate payments to the State, and on March 4, 2022, I made the refund into the Controller & Accountant General’s Department Suspense Account at the Bank of Ghana,” he said on the latest statement.

The move, per Togbui Afede, is in line with his long-standing principle against dishing out huge funds for to public officials at the expense of the citizenry.

“I want to add that my rejection of the payment was consistent with my general abhorrence of the payment of huge Ex Gratia and other outrageous benefits to people who have by their own volition offered to serve our poor country,” the statement concluded.

Below is the full statement

The Ghana Premier League powerhouse has dominated the airwaves and the headlines for the wrong reasons.

Currently, the entire technical team has left the club. Kosta Papic, who was the head coach of the club, has left the club due to interference.

Assistant coach, Asare Bediako, has also left the club citing personal reasons. Team manager, Sabahn Quaye, has been sacked for accusing a board member of interference.

However, the National Chapter Committee, led by Supporters Chief, Elvis Herman Hesse, on Wednesday besieged the headquarters of the club. 

Speaking to the press, Mr Hesse called on the Board to appoint Chief Executive Officer and a local coach or face the wrath of the supporters.

The supporters chief also demanded for a reconstitution of the club’s board of directors and an emergency meeting with Togbe Afede, the club’s biggest shareholder.

READ ALSO

• Shocking: Why Kosta Papic left Hearts of Oak after just three months

• Hearts of Oak confirm parting ways with Kosta Papic and goalkeeper’s trainer

“The NCC demands the immediate appointment of a first-team coach,” Mr Hesse said.

“This should be done in consultation with all the stakeholders. We have realised that the expatriate coaches have not helped the clubs for the past decade.

“We will not hesitate to take any action when an expatriate coach is appointed. The NCC wants to be involved in who becomes the next Chief Executive Officer and a local coach.”

The National House of Chiefs, headed by Togbe Afede XIV, in a press release on Tuesday, demanded that Mr Mahama apologises to the chiefs and people of Akyem for promoting ethnocentric sentiments on his Facebook page.

The National House of Chiefs in no uncertain terms condemned the act of the former president, stressing that such comments had no place in the country’s politics.

But, speaking in an exclusive interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr Forson noted that the ethnocentric comments made cannot be attributed to the former president as he specifically did not make them.

OTHER STORIES:

• Runaway father of triplets returns after mother receives financial help [Video]

• Pregnant woman killed at her baby shower[photos]

“I don’t think the ethnocentric comments should be attributed to Mr Mahama because he wasn’t the one that made the comments, it was Isaac Adongo who made them,” he argued.

“And besides the comment wasn’t referring to the people of Akyem but rather a specific group of people in connection with the Agyapa Royalties deal,” he added.

To him, people are unnecessarily stretching the issue and that, that energy should rather be channeled into substantive matters such as unraveling the secrecy surrounding the Agyapa Royalties deal.

Details of press release by the National House of Chiefs:

Togbe Afede XIV who is also the Agbogbomefia of Asogli said the ongoing processes towards the creation of new regions pose a threat to peace and unity.

He also argued that the Commission of Inquiry into the creation of new regions had no power to exclude natives of regions which would be altered from voting in the referendum.

READ ALSO: Joy News reporter Parker assaulted by Mahama’s security

However, Dan Botwe on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem Tuesday said the comment by Togbe Afede was shocking.

He noted that when the government decided on the creation of the new regions, the Agbogbomefia of Asogli was the first person he consulted on the matter.

The Minister said the Commission was mandated under Article 5 clause 4 of the 1992 Constitution to determine the place where a referendum must be held, not a chief.

READ ALSO: KNUST lecturers call off strike after Otumfuo’s intervention

Dan Botwe also dispelled claims that some of the chiefs, especially, in the Volta region were not consulted on the creation of the new regions.

“All the chiefs in the regions were consulted so such claims are false. The dates and facts are there,” he asserted.

Dan Botwe who is also the Member of Parliament for Okere Constituency stated that though they welcome criticisms, such comment from a revered chief cast  a slur on the work of the Commission.

READ ALSO: Third-year students added to Free SHS – GES

He said “education is the most effective weapon against poverty” and that the policy formed the basis of the developmental agenda of the country.

Togbe Afede was addressing a durbar in Ho to climax the 2017 Asogli Yam Festival, which was held under the theme: “the role of tradition and culture in governance and development”.

The President of the National House of Chiefs also commended Government for other initiatives such as the industrialization policy and the fight against corruption and environmental degradation.

Togbe Afede, however, lamented the dwindling role of chiefs in national development and said measures were being put in place to ensure they “won back their nobility”.

He called on chiefs to support Government’s policies and take advantage of them to develop their areas.

Togbe Afede said poverty was not God’s design for mankind and urged Government to liberate the private sector to transform the economy and create wealth for the citizenry.

“We must do things differently. The same way will not help us. Biblical miracles are history now. God does not reward laziness and mediocrity, He rewards hardwork,” he said.

Dr Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President, asked Asogli youth to take lessons from the Festival and rekindle communal spirit and patriotism.

“Elders are the teachers of civic responsibility and must instil proper discipline and pride in the youth…that is how we shape the norms of society…this is how we make ourselves better,” he said.

Dr Bawumia said the Free SHS was just the start of many good things adding that the policy would benefit all.

He said teacher trainee allowance would be restored this month and that of nurses next month and reiterated Government’s commitment to the construction of the Eastern Corridor road and the construction of a bridge on River Oti.

Dr Bawumia announced that Government would soon launch a digital address system to enhance commerce and governance.

The festival attracted members of the diplomatic corps and local and foreign tourists.

He said the political crisis in that country was sending wrong signals about West Africa and said it was time the sub-regional body intervened.

Togbe Afede made the call at a grand durbar to climax the 2017 Asogli Yam Festival celebrations in Ho.

He said apart from the conflict spilling over to neighbouring countries, it was turning investors away and needed to be addressed.

Togbe Afede asked ECOWAS to engage the conflicting parties to resolve their misunderstandings democratically other than the use of force and arms.

“Togo needs peace, West Africa needs peace and ECOWAS must act now,” he said.

Togbe Afede commended Government for its resolve to work with chiefs and also praised its efforts to ensure for peace in the country.

He said chiefs in the country are excited with Government’s initiatives such as the “Free SHS, One District, One Factory,” and pledged their readiness to take advantage of the policies to develop their areas.

Togbe Afede urged Government to give true support to the private sector to develop and urged the citizenry to eschew laziness, greed and show true love to one another and the nation.

The Vice President, Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia said Government was in a hurry to transform the country and called for the support of chiefs.

He said a national digital address system would soon be launched to change the economy and face of governance in the country.

Dr Bawumia said the system, the most advanced in the world, would give “even kiosks unique addresses.”

He said Government remained committed to the Eastern Corridor road and would restore teacher trainee allowances this month and that of nurses next month.

The festival, held under the theme, “The role of tradition and culture in governance and development,” attracted members of the diplomatic corps, tourists and chiefs from Benin, Togo, Congo, South Africa and Cameroon.

The two were named as respondents in the case which also sues the developer, Yao Addo Developments Limited.

In a press statement he caused to be issued by his office Friday, Togbe Afede said the regrettable inclusion of the two in the suit as respondents was the result of a miscommunication.

“We regret the inclusion of the Attorney General and the Minister of Defence in the action against the Army, in connection with the construction work taking place in the Army Mess at 37, Accra.

“This was the result of miscommunication between the lawyer and Togbe’s representative. The lawyer has been asked to withdraw the suit and only PLACE AN INJUNCTION on the Army and the developer, so that they will cooperate in the search for a solution to the problem created by the new construction at the Army Mess, which, at about 5 feet from Togbe’s wall, is too close for a 6-storey building. The closeness is the reason why debris has been falling from the new structure into Togbe’s compound.

“We wish to place on record the fact that the Army has been engaged on this matter since September, 2016 without any result. Meanwhile, construction has been in progress since then. The issues involved are not only those of privacy and security breaches, given that this is a commercial property development, but also compliance with existing building laws.”

source: Graphic.com