Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Rural Development has assured traditional leaders of restoration of powers of summons as one of the means of aiding government in fight against illegal mining.
Through the amendment of Section 63 (D) of the chieftaincy act, traditional rulers will be empowered to summon persons who perpetrate crime to the environment.
Sector Minister, Ahmed Ibrahim who doubles as member of Parliament for the Banda Constituency is anticipating the power when restored will be used in helping the local government ministry deal with sanitation issues.
The Article 63(D) which incriminates delibrate refusal to honor calls of chiefs was stricken down by the Supreme Court for inconsistencies with the constitution.
As a campaign promise, the President, John Mahama assured of willingness to amend the section of the act to improve the chieftaincy institution.
Earlier, the President of the House of Chiefs, Ogyeahohuo Yaw Gyebi II enumerated on the dangers posed by illegal mining.
He assured willingness to support government efforts to deal with the menace.
Meanwhile, the Ministry has assured the National House of Chiefs of the government’s preparedness to help deal with issues of litigation that have bedevilled the institution.
The mminister was accompanied by Ashanti regional minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene among other members of the ministry for Local Government and Religious Affairs.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
