Paramount Chief raises alarm over attacks on traditional leaders
The Paramount Chief of Komenda in the Central Regio, Okatakyi Komeh VIII, has voiced concern over the growing trend of abuse and disparaging remarks directed at chiefs on social media, warning that the development poses a serious threat to the dignity and stability of the chieftaincy institution.
According to him, the increasing misuse of digital platforms to insult, discredit and spread false narratives about traditional rulers risks weakening an institution that has for generations played a central role in preserving peace, culture and local governance.
Okayakyi Komeh VIII made the remarks during the launch of the 2026 Nyeyi Festival of the Komenda Traditional Area.
Festival theme
The festival which will be celebrated on the second Saturday of September is on the theme: “Uniting the People for Socio-Economic Development Through Tradition and Tourism: The Role of Stakeholders.”
Addressing the gathering, the Paramount Chief lamented what he described as a worrying rise in verbal attacks against chiefs and traditional authorities on social networking platforms, particularly .
He explained that while technology and social media had created opportunities for communication and civic engagement, their misuse to spread insults, ethnic divisions and misleading information about traditional leadership could deepen tensions within communities.
Custodian of customs
The chief noted that chiefs and the chieftaincy institution remained one of the oldest and most respected institutions in Ghanaian society, with chiefss not only serving as the custody of culture and customs but also mediating conflicts and promoting development at the local level.
He warned that persistent attacks on traditional authorities in the digital space could gradually erode public trust and respect for the institution, affecting social harmony.
“Chieftaincy is part of our identity and cultural heritage.
When people deliberately use social media to insult chiefs, spread falsehoods and create divisions, it threatens the peace and unity of our communities,” he stressed.
Intensify surveillance
Okayakyi Komeh therefore appealed to government and particularly the security agencies, to intensify surveillance of online platforms and take action against persons who use digital spaces to incite violence, disrupt public order or deliberately undermine traditional authority.
He urged authorities to identify individuals and groups who exploit social media to inflame tensions and disrespect cultural institutions, insisting that proactive intervention would help preserve peace and strengthen national cohesion.
Promote Community development
The Paramount Chief further called on residents and social media users to exercise responsibility in their online engagements by promoting respectful dialogue and using digital platforms to support community development rather than deepen divisions.
He also encouraged stakeholders to embrace the 2026 Nyeyi Festival as an opportunity to foster unity and mobilise support for the socio-economic growth of the Komenda Traditional Area through culture and tourism.
