The Executive President of the Duamenefa Foundation, Mr. Ketaman Emmanuel Evortepe, has emphasised the important role of traditional authorities in resolving community disputes through customary processes, mediation, and arbitration.
Mr. Evortepe made the remarks during the Duamenefa Foundation’s Social Intervention Programme on Fafaa 100.3 FM.
According to him, the Duamenefa Foundation recognises the institution of chieftaincy and works closely with traditional authorities because of their important role in promoting peace, resolving disputes, and maintaining social harmony within their respective communities.
He explained that the Foundation’s position follows an ongoing petition currently under investigation, which is expected to be referred to the appropriate traditional authority for consideration through customary dispute-resolution processes.
Mr. Evortepe said the decision to involve the relevant traditional authority is intended to ensure that the matter is addressed through an appropriate customary process while promoting peace and reconciliation among the parties.
He noted that customary arbitration and other traditional dispute-resolution mechanisms continue to play an important role in resolving community disagreements, particularly where parties are willing to engage in dialogue and seek an amicable settlement.
The Executive President therefore urged members of the public to respect traditional institutions and cooperate with traditional authorities when disputes are referred to them for lawful and appropriate resolution.
He stressed that traditional leaders have a significant responsibility to help maintain peace within their traditional areas and to intervene appropriately when disputes arise before they escalate into broader conflicts.
Mr. Evortepe said collaboration between the Duamenefa Foundation and traditional authorities enables community concerns to be channelled through appropriate avenues while promoting peace and social cohesion.
He emphasised that the Foundation does not seek to undermine traditional institutions but rather works alongside them to ensure that petitions and community concerns receive appropriate attention.
He also urged individuals involved in disputes to exercise restraint and avoid taking matters into their own hands. According to him, disagreements should be addressed through dialogue, mediation, customary processes, or other lawful avenues.
Mr. Evortepe called on traditional leaders to continue collaborating with the Foundation and other relevant institutions to address community concerns and prevent disputes from escalating.
He reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to working with traditional authorities to protect lives, promote peace, and support peaceful dispute resolution across communities.
According to him, the ultimate objective of the Duamenefa Foundation is to contribute to peaceful and harmonious communities by ensuring that petitions brought before it receive appropriate attention and intervention.
He further appealed to community members to respect traditional institutions and cooperate with established dispute-resolution processes, stressing that collaboration among traditional authorities, civil society organisations, and community members is essential to maintaining peace and stability.
Mr. Evortepe concluded that through cooperation, dialogue, mediation, and timely intervention, many community disputes can be resolved peacefully, creating an environment conducive to sustainable development.
By Hutor Dziwornu
Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze
Edited by Evortepe Isabella