The Nungua Mantse, Oboade Notse King Professor Odaifio Welentsi III, is officially ascending as the President of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs (GARHC).
His election comes after previously serving as Vice President and acting President, a position he assumed following the passing of the Paramount Chief of the Shai Osudoku Traditional Area. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, had initially filed to contest but withdrew, allowing Professor Welentsi III to go unopposed.
The newly elected President will serve a four-year term in accordance with Act 759 of 2008, which mandates elections for the GARHC presidency every four years. Joining him in leadership is Nene Tetteh Wakah III, the Paramount Chief of Prampram Traditional Area, who has been elected Vice President.
The official swearing-in ceremony, conducted by Circuit Court Judge Ms. Bacilia Adjei-Tawiah, emphasized the importance of their roles in promoting peace and development within the community.
The judge’s urging for the chiefs to dissociate chieftaincy matters from litigation highlights a commitment to fostering harmony among the various traditional authorities.
In his acceptance speech, Professor Welentsi III expressed heartfelt gratitude for the trust placed in him by his fellow chiefs, viewing his election as a “victory for all” and a call to serve the community.
He acknowledged the need for collaboration, stating, “I will actively seek input from our former President and other members of the House on matters of mutual interest.”
