In Kaleo, Ghana’s Upper West Region, a long-standing chieftaincy dispute has reached a critical point as members of the Nazieyiri sub-gate have petitioned the Supreme Court to overturn a ruling by the National House of Chiefs.
The conflict, which began in May 2014, revolves around the criteria for installing the next Kaleo Naa, the paramount chief of the area. Following the passing of Naa Banaanmwini Sandu II on February 17, 2014, the Kaleo Traditional Skin became vacant after his 34-year reign of unification.
Yahaya Witol from the Nazieyiri sub-gate has filed a case against John Putieha Badingu, challenging the National House of Chiefs’ decision favoring the Nyagayiri section’s nomination for the next Kaleo Naa.
The dispute stems from conflicting interpretations of the traditional succession process. Nazieyiri seeks to uphold the nomination procedure provided by the Judicial Committee of the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs, while the respondents argue for the nomination from the Bayuayiri and/or Goriyi gates.
The matter, initially ruled upon by the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs, has now escalated to the Supreme Court, where the resolution will undergo the highest legal scrutiny.
Stakeholders emphasize the broader implications, extending beyond local dynamics to the interpretation of traditional succession practices in Ghana. The Supreme Court’s decision will shape the future leadership of Kaleo and determine the rightful occupant of the position of Kaleo Naa.
Before his passing, Naa Banaanmwini Sandu II played significant roles in national chieftaincy and cultural matters. Disagreements arose over his successor, leading to the current legal battle.
The dispute has involved various gates within the chieftaincy, reflecting differing views on succession traditions. Despite attempts at resolution, the matter remains unresolved and now rests with the Supreme Court for adjudication.
