The paramount chief of the Komenda Traditional Area in the Central Region, Okatakyir Komey VIII, has called on the government of Ghana to introduce stricter punitive measures against individuals who publicly insult traditional rulers, arguing that stronger enforcement would restore respect and “fear” for the chieftaincy institution among citizens.

‎According to the chief, the growing trend of verbal attacks and disrespect toward chiefs—especially through social media platforms—is undermining Ghana’s traditional authority system and weakening cultural values tied to leadership and community governance, which use once the country's pride even before the introduction of democracy.

‎Okatakyir Komey VIII made this assertion at the official launch of the 2026 Komenda Nyeyi Afahye, slated to hold from 6th-15th September, 2026, on theme "Uniting the People for Socio-Economic Development through Tradition and Tourism: The Role of Stakeholders."

‎Ghana’s existing Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759) already contains provisions against insulting chiefs. Section 53 of the Act states that a person who knowingly uses insulting or disrespectful language toward a chief may commit an offence. 

‎However, the debate around respect for chiefs and the limits of criticism has become increasingly prominent in Ghana in recent years, particularly following several public controversies involving politicians, media personalities, and traditional leaders. 

‎The Komenda chief again bemoaned how chieftaincy has lately turned into a litigation zone all due to the interference of politicians in chieftaincy related issues. Hence, implored government to find a lasting solution to such situation for a sustainable peace and unity within the confines of chieftaincy.

‎Sompaonline.com//Eric Annan