A group of aggrieved residents in Elmina, Central Region, calling themselves Sweet Elmina, has taken to the streets in protest, demanding the immediate destoolment of their paramount chief, Nana Kojo Kondua VI, whom they accuse of decades-long neglect and failure to account for community resources.
The demonstrators, made up of concerned youth, elders, and community members, say their call for action stems from 27 years of what they describe as poor leadership and a complete breakdown in transparency from the Omanhene.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr. Phillip Kondua voiced deep frustration with the traditional ruler’s silence and perceived inaction.
“Nana Kojo Kondua VI has failed to account for community resources and assets since his enstoolment 27 years ago,” he said.
He further accused the Omanhene of mismanaging or concealing revenues generated from key local institutions such as the community cold store, salt production facilities, CJ Company Limited, and royalties from the historic Elmina Castle.
The group claims that not once has the Omanhene presented a financial or development report to the community, even after major cultural events like the Edina Bakatue Festival.
Residents say this lack of transparency has eroded trust and contributed to Elmina’s slow pace of development, despite the area’s cultural and economic significance.
With tensions escalating, the protestors have issued a clear ultimatum to the Omanhene. “We do not want to see him participate in the 2025 Edina Bakatue Festival,” the group declared.
This growing civil agitation reflects a broader shift in traditional communities across Ghana, where citizens are increasingly demanding accountability, good governance, and responsible stewardship from their leaders—traditional and political alike.
