The serene municipality of Kintampo, known for its centuries-old peace and unique blend of tribes, is on the brink of turmoil as two significant ceremonies collide, raising concerns about potential conflicts.
In a startling revelation on the floor of Parliament, Joseph Kuma, the Member of Parliament for Kintampo North, highlighted the clash between the Paramount Chief of Moo, Nana Kweku Dankwa III, and Shrakyi Fangrima, the President of the Wangara Community.
Both leaders have scheduled crucial ceremonies, involving rituals and festivals, within the same timeframe from November to December.
The conflict arises from the overlap of the Moo Traditional Council’s ritual for cleansing accidents and negative incidents in the municipality, particularly in the Mo settlements areas, and the Annual Klubi Festival of the Wangara Community. The clash of these two events has sparked concerns that the longstanding peace and harmony of Kintampo may be shattered.
Kuma expressed deep concern over the potential collapse of what was once an enviable society, emphasizing the strategic importance of Kintampo with its year-round agricultural activities, aquaculture, animal husbandry, and diverse cultural heritage.
The municipality, however, faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, frequent accidents, and a lack of a common Trauma Center.
“We refused to join the unpalatable chronicle of towns on the table of conflict,” Kuma stated, urging swift intervention from the Regional and National Peace Councils to facilitate dialogue and mediation.
Highlighting the need for an industrial revolution over conflict resolution, Kuma called for urgent attention to prevent negative consequences on commuters, businesses, and government resources. He emphasized that Kintampo’s unique position as the center of the nation should not be allowed to succumb to tensions.
Responding to the urgency of the situation, the Rt. Hon Speaker, S. K. Alban, directed the Ministers responsible for National Security and Interior to appear before the parliamentary committee on defense and interior on Thursday, November 23, 2023.
The National Security Council was also urged to intervene promptly to safeguard the cherished Chieftaincy institution from falling into disarray.