The Chief of Kantankofore, Nana Kwadwo Yemowe, has sparked controversy by linking modern human rights frameworks to what he describes as the moral decline of the youth, including the rise of homosexuality and the erosion of traditional values in Ghanaian society.
Speaking at the 25th anniversary celebration of Nana Mprah Besemuna III in Kete-Krachi, Nana Yemowe argued that laws protecting human rights, child rights, and other liberties are making it increasingly difficult for elders to discipline young people and uphold long-standing cultural norms.
“As youth, you should take the culture of our ancestors seriously,” he stated, warning that many young people are abandoning their values to emulate foreign lifestyles.
“Today, it is a crime in our tradition to engage in same-sex relationships and other unacceptable behaviours, but the youth are eager to do these things because they want to copy other people’s culture,” he said.
However, the Chief clarified that his concerns should not be seen as opposition to human rights, stressing the need for balance.
“I am not against human rights or the freedoms people are entitled to,” he said. “But I strongly believe that as we embrace these rights, we must also uphold our cultural norms and values. Our traditions define us, and they should go hand in hand with modern laws to guide the younger generation onto the right path.”
Nana Yemowe lamented that modern legal protections have weakened traditional authority. “There are human rights, child rights, and even animal rights protecting everyone, so when children go astray, there is nobody to call them to the right path,” he said.
He warned that practices once considered abominable in Krachi tradition are gradually creeping in due to the erosion of discipline and respect for customs.
“In the past, strict adherence to tradition helped prevent social vices such as theft and immorality. No one dared to steal because there were serious implications, but today, even though they know they will be caught, they still engage in such acts,” he noted.
The Chief also cautioned against actions considered sacred violations in Krachi, including immoral conduct in rivers and their surroundings, warning that the youth’s “trial and error” approach could lead them into dangerous cultural transgressions if unchecked.
He urged young people to learn and respect their traditions, emphasizing that this is essential for raising responsible future leaders who can contribute to national development.
Despite his concerns, Nana Yemowe praised Nana Mprah Besemuna III for his exemplary leadership over the past 25 years, describing him as a unifying and visionary leader whose reign has brought peace, discipline, and transformation to the Krachi Traditional Area.
Highlighting the Krachiwura’s achievements, the chief pointed to the construction of the Krachi Palace, the tarring of roads in Kete-Krachi, and the establishment of key initiatives such as the Krachi Midwifery Training School and Kaakye FM.
He also lauded the Krachiwura’s instrumental role in the creation of the Oti Region and his leadership as the first President of the Oti Regional House of Chiefs.
The Silver Jubilee celebration, held under the theme “Celebrating 25 Years of Traditional Leadership, Unity and Development in Krachi,” brought together dignitaries, chiefs, and residents to honour the legacy of Nana Mprah Besemuna III, whose leadership continues to shape the development of the Krachi area.
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