The Duamenefa Foundation has permanently suspended investigations into a petition involving members of the Tega family from Dzodze-Kuli in the Ketu North Municipality of the Volta Region following repeated breaches of investigative procedures and alleged defamatory remarks by one of the petitioners.
According to the Foundation, although it previously accepted an apology from the petitioner and resumed investigations after an earlier suspension, continued violations during the second phase of proceedings have compelled management to discontinue handling the matter indefinitely.
The petition was initially submitted by Madam Atsu Tega and Mr. Atsu Tega, who alleged that they were experiencing spiritual attacks and further accused their younger brother, Mr. David Tega, of terrorising their lives in connection with an ongoing family land dispute.
Following receipt of the petition, the Duamenefa Foundation commenced investigations aimed at restoring peace and resolving tensions within the family. However, during the proceedings, Mr. Atsu Tega repeatedly referred to his brother as a “murderer” during public discussions related to the case.
Despite several cautions from the Executive President of the Foundation, Mr. Emmanuel Ketaman Evortepe, to refrain from making such statements, the petitioner allegedly failed to comply. The remarks were considered prejudicial, defamatory, and contrary to the Foundation’s established investigative procedures.
As a result, the Executive President initially suspended the petition over concerns about misconduct and interference with due process.
Following the suspension, Mr. Atsu Tega later issued a formal apology, which was reviewed and accepted by the Board of Governors of the Foundation. In the interest of reconciliation and peaceful resolution, the Foundation subsequently lifted the suspension and resumed investigations after the petitioners reportedly expressed confidence in the institution’s ability to help resolve the matter.
However, during the resumed hearings, Mr. Atsu Tega allegedly repeated similar conduct during a public interaction with the Executive President while engaging his brother in a hearing session.
According to the Foundation, although he was given the opportunity to ask questions for public clarification, many of the issues he raised were unrelated to the original petition. Despite repeated cautions from Mr. Evortepe, he allegedly continued with the conduct and eventually made comments during the hearing that the Foundation described as unfortunate.
The hearing, which was broadcast on Fafaa 100.3 FM, reportedly caused concern and disappointment to the Executive President, leading to renewed deliberations by management.
Subsequently, the Executive President, Mr. Emmanuel Ketaman Evortepe, officially announced the permanent suspension of the petition.
According to him, the repeated conduct of Mr. Atsu Tega had become increasingly troubling despite several warnings and opportunities for correction. He noted that this was the second time the petitioner had breached the Foundation’s procedures after previously apologising and having the matter reconsidered.
Mr. Evortepe stressed that the Duamenefa Foundation conducts its investigations strictly in accordance with established rules and regulations and would not permit any individual to undermine the integrity of its processes.
He further expressed regret over the unfortunate remarks made during the public hearing and extended apologies to listeners of Fafaa 100.3 FM as well as the family whose name was referenced during the comments made by Mr. Atsu Tega.
Speaking on behalf of the Board of Governors and members of the Foundation, Mr. Evortepe explained that the decision to permanently suspend the petition was necessary to preserve the credibility and integrity of the Foundation’s investigative procedures and ensure professionalism in future mediation cases.
The development has since generated public discussion regarding the importance of discipline, respect for due process, and responsible communication during mediation and dispute resolution processes, particularly in cases handled by community-based peacebuilding institutions.
Observers note that organisations such as the Duamenefa Foundation depend heavily on cooperation, trust, and responsible conduct from all parties in order to achieve fair and peaceful outcomes. They warn that repeated procedural breaches have the potential to undermine reconciliation efforts and weaken confidence in investigations.
It has also been observed that family disputes involving land ownership and allegations of spiritual intimidation remain highly sensitive matters in many communities across the Volta Region and therefore require strict adherence to mediation guidelines to prevent escalation.
Meanwhile, the Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace and resolving conflicts in situations where parties cooperate and comply with established procedures. Management emphasized that the decision serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting institutional processes during dispute resolution.
Despite the suspension, some members of the public and sympathisers of the Tega family have reportedly appealed to the Foundation to reconsider its decision and grant Mr. Atsu Tega another opportunity, arguing that continued mediation may still help bring lasting peace within the family.
According to some sympathisers, the emotional nature of the allegations and the long-standing tensions surrounding the case may require a more restorative approach capable of rebuilding trust among the parties involved.
However, others have defended the Foundation’s decision, insisting that strict adherence to procedures is essential for fairness, order, and credibility in all investigations conducted by the institution.
The public has therefore been urged to remain calm and await any further official communication from the Duamenefa Foundation regarding the matter.
By Hutor Dziwornu
Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze
Edited by : Isabella Emmanuella Evortepe, UEW – Fafaa 100.3 Fm