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President John Dramani Mahama has detailed pragmatic measures towards addressing the long-standing land grievances in the Greater Accra Region by ordering a halt on government land sales.
Speaking at Dodowa as part of his “Thank-You” tour following his electoral victory, Mahama emphasized the need for unity and dialogue within traditional institutions.
“We’re deeply concerned by the impact of unresolved disputes on development in our traditional areas,” Mahama stated, urging traditional councils to utilize existing mediation frameworks within the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs to settle chieftaincy disputes.
“I urge all traditional councils to resolve matters of chieftaincy with dignity, through dialogue and mutual respect.”
Mahama reiterated government support through the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, noting that it stands ready to facilitate any conflict resolution mechanisms fairly and neutrally.
Mahama also addressed widespread concerns about state lands and ancestral lands, which he said emerged as a major issue during his engagements across the region.
“These concerns are valid,” he said. “I understand the historical injustices and emotional debt tied to this matter.” In response, Mahama revealed that one of his first actions upon assuming office was to direct the Lands Commission to halt all sale and processing of government lands, a directive that remains firmly in effect.
Mahama disclosed that following the submission of the Oral Committee report, the Attorney General launched an investigation into the alleged sale of prime public lands to politically connected individuals, some of whom reportedly acquired high-value lands for as little as GHS 45,000. “Meanwhile, these are lands whose values run into millions of cedis,” he emphasized.
To provide a permanent solution, Mahama announced plans to seek parliamentary approval for a Commission of Enquiry to investigate the acquisition, allocation, and use of public lands in Greater Accra.
“This Commission will work with our chiefs, legal experts, historians, and affected communities to produce a comprehensive report,” Mahama said. “Its outcome will guide a lasting and just solution to a matter that has lasted for far too long.”
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