Members of the National House of Chiefs have expressed concern over inadequate sitting allowances and poor logistical support, saying the challenges are affecting their ability to effectively carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
The concerns were raised during a courtesy visit by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Chieftaincy, Culture and Religious Affairs to the House in Kumasi.
Speaking on behalf of the Chiefs, the President of the National House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of the Sefwi Anwiaso Traditional Area, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, noted that official vehicles meant for the House are expected to be replaced every four years, but the last replacement was done in 2019.
He also disclosed that the six newly created regions currently lack accommodation facilities for their respective Houses of Chiefs. In addition, he said the quarterly logistics allocation of GH¢400 and the monthly allowance of GH¢3,000 are often delayed.
The Member of Parliament for Ablekuma Central, Dan Abdul-Latif, who acted as Ranking Member for the Committee during the visit, suggested that the National House of Chiefs should engage Parliament’s leadership to strengthen its independence as guaranteed under the Constitution, rather than depending on ministries for financial allocations.
Chairman of the Committee, Fred Kyei Asamoah, assured the Chiefs of the Committee’s commitment to supporting the National House of Chiefs to function effectively and address the various chieftaincy disputes before it.
Source: 3news
