Abstract
The conceptualization of Chiefs as instruments of politics is not a new concept. Over the last two decades or so, there has been a vile practice perpetuating in Ghana’s politics where chiefs are being used by politicians to gain political advantage or solicit for votes. The first trace of this political game can be tracked to the era of indirect rule. For much of the 19 th century, British exercised its dominion over the people of Ghana through their chiefs. Indirect rule could be comprehended as the idea to use existing customary structures and traditions as canals for creating rules and regulations, while British officers operated behind the scenes to gain the approval and support of Ghanaians [1] . The practice today is not so dissimilar from colonial times. The outstanding distinction is bared in the fact that today, politicians are not trying to hide their diplomatic control over Chiefs. Keywords: the chief, chieftaincy institution, indirect rule, active politics, partisan politics DOI: 10.7176/JLPG/115-10 Publication date: November 30 th 2021 [1] England’s Indirect Rule in its African countries. American Historical Association. Available at https://www.historians.org/teaching-and-learning -in-the-digital-age/England’s-indirect-rule-in-its-African-countries.
Highlights
Whereas, there may be a number of good reasons why the chief should not be involved in active politics
These reasons when compared with the plausibility of Article 276 are puny arguments
I aver that the eminence of the chief should not be dwindled down to instruments of politicians; it is practically impossible to dissociate them from active politics
Summary
Settlement of disputes: The chief till this day, acts as a mediator between his people and, his people and the gods. He had jurisdiction in all matters and there was no right of appeal to his decisions Though his decision-making power has been constitutionally limited, he remains an effective mediator of dispute between his people especially in civil matters ranging from land contestation, family dispute, robbery and stealing et cetera. Ceremonial duties: The Chief in Ghana has duties similar to that of the Queen in England. He serves as a ceremonial figure and is responsible for the organization and celebration of festivals. The laws made by the chief do not operate universally These laws are subjective and vary from community to community depending on the prevailing custom and beliefs of the people in the community
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