The Western Regional House of Chiefs has, in a historic first, unanimously honoured the Member of Parliament for Ellembelle and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for his instrumental role in restoring unity within the House after years of protracted litigation that rendered it inactive.
The honour, a citation titled “Abodin Fata Wo”, recognises the Minister’s efforts in helping to resolve divisions that had plagued the House and prevented it from sitting for nearly four years. His recognition marks the first time the House has collectively bestowed such an honour on a politician.
The Minister was accompanied by Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson and Council of State Member for the Western Region, Maxwell Boakye.
In an emotional and reflective acceptance speech, Mr Buah underscored the critical importance of unity, not only within the House, but across the Western Region, warning that division continues to hinder the region’s development, despite its vast natural resources.
He likened the region’s situation to a divided household, noting that discord breeds instability and stagnation.
“When you enter a home where there is confusion and fighting, you feel unwelcome. That is what division does to us as a people,” he said.
Drawing a vivid analogy, the Minister described Ghana as a football field where success depends on teamwork and coordination.
“Every time there is division in our region, we are losing the match. Don’t tell me we have too many resources, it doesn’t work like that. If we do not unite to claim our proper place, nobody will claim it for us,” he stressed.
The Lands Minister further emphasised that unity must begin with traditional leadership, urging chiefs to resolve disputes amicably rather than through prolonged legal battles.
“If our chiefs are united, if they are not spending all their monies in court every day, we will be so much better off,” he noted. He described the honour as both humbling and a call to greater responsibility.
Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, lauded Mr Buah’s dedication to public service, attributing his rise in government to his compassion and selflessness.
“Service to mankind is his hallmark,” he said, adding that the honour should inspire the House to remain united.
He described the Minister as “an encouragement and aspiration” to many, urging the chiefs to continue fostering cohesion within the institution.
Similarly, Council of State Member Maxwell Boakye described the recognition as rare and significant.
“This is the first time I have seen a Minister being honoured by chiefs. It tells us that whatever we do, chiefs are watching,” he remarked.
He appealed to the traditional authorities to continue supporting the Minister, whom he described as a role model.
Chiefs Commend Leadership
President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Kobina Nketiah, expressed deep admiration for the Minister’s words and leadership.
“We are all honoured. We are encouraged by your words,” he said, noting that the address carried both emotional and spiritual weight.
The House’s Vice President, Nana Kwesi Agyemang, also joined in commending the Minister, highlighting the broader significance of unity for the region’s progress.
The ceremony not only celebrated an individual, but also marked a turning point for the Western Regional House of Chiefs, signalling a renewed commitment to unity and collective purpose.
For Mr. Buah, a five-term Member of Parliament with nearly two decades of legislative experience, the honour serves as both recognition and responsibility, one he hopes will inspire a united front for the advancement of the Western Region.
