The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for the arrest and prosecution of traditional leaders allegedly involved in the sale of lands within waterways and other designated flood-prone zones, warning that such actions are worsening Ghana’s recurring flooding crisis.
His remarks came on Thursday, May 28, during a visit to communities affected by the recent spillage of the Weija Dam, which has left homes and shops submerged, forcing residents to evacuate and salvage their belongings under difficult conditions.
Speaking to journalists after touring the flood-hit areas, the Ga Mantse expressed concern that some chiefs are directly contributing to the disaster by allocating protected lands for private development.
“Chiefs who are selling lands in flood-prone areas and places that are supposed to remain green areas must be held accountable,” he said.
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II stressed that enforcement of land use regulations must be taken seriously to prevent the repetition of such disasters, insisting that authorities must not look on while illegal developments continue.
He further urged state institutions and local authorities to strictly enforce existing environmental and building regulations.
“We believe that everything is on course. What we are asking is that government agencies, the Regional Minister, and the MMDAs enforce the by-laws. Nobody should be allowed to build in waterways. If it is wrong, it is wrong, and we have to deal with it,” he said.
While acknowledging the emotional and financial toll of demolishing properties in unauthorized areas, the Ga Mantse maintained that enforcement remains necessary to safeguard lives and prevent future disasters.
“Demolitions are painful, and I sympathise with those affected, but we will have to enforce the laws because these situations continue to cause loss of life,” he added.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) says evacuation efforts are underway to relocate affected residents to safer locations as authorities respond to the unfolding crisis.
