The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to refrain from interfering in the traditional succession process in Dagbon following the death of Ya-Na Abukari II.
In a statement signed by its National Communications Director, Osei Kofi Acquah, the CPP expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, describing him as a revered traditional ruler whose leadership contributed significantly to peace and unity within the Dagbon Kingdom.
The party said Ya-Na Abukari II would be remembered for fostering reconciliation between the Abudu and Andani royal gates, which have historically been at the centre of succession disputes in Dagbon.
The CPP also highlighted its historical ties with the people of Dagbon, tracing the relationship to the 1950s when the government of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, relied on the Opoku-Afari Commission to help resolve a protracted chieftaincy dispute after the rotational system of succession failed in 1948.
While mourning the late Ya-Na, the CPP cautioned that the period following the death of a Dagbon overlord has traditionally been sensitive and called on the country’s security agencies to remain vigilant to preserve law and order.
“The CPP is calling on all the national security agencies to remain vigilant and alert to ensure that peace is maintained in Dagbon,” the statement said.
The party further urged the NPP and the NDC to avoid any involvement in matters relating to the succession of the Dagbon skin, arguing that the kingdom’s customs and traditions provide clear mechanisms for selecting a successor.
“The traditions of Dagbon are ancient and well established, particularly regarding succession, and politicians must allow due process to ensure fairness, justice and peace,” the statement noted.
As part of its mourning, the CPP announced that all party flags across the country would fly at half-mast in honour of the late Ya-Na.
The party also extended its condolences to the people of Dagbon and prayed for the peaceful repose of the late overlord, expressing hope that the kingdom would continue to enjoy peace during the transition period.
The death of Ya-Na Abukari II marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the Dagbon Kingdom, with traditional funeral rites and succession processes expected to commence in accordance with Dagbon custom.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
