Professor Edmund Nminyem Delle Chiir VIII, the paramount chief of Nandom Traditional Area, has issued a powerful call to action to the youthful ministers appointed in President John Dramani Mahama’s government. He urges them to seize the opportunity presented by their youthfulness – their dynamism, energy, and innovative thinking – to set a new standard for governance in Ghana. This, he believes, is crucial not only for the success of the current administration but also for restoring the faith of Ghana’s youth in the democratic process, which has been significantly eroded in recent years. He emphasizes the importance of respecting established procedures and seeking guidance from experienced elders while simultaneously driving change and progress. Naa Prof Delle Chiir VIII sees the 2024 election results as a beacon of hope, a chance to reinvigorate the democratic system and foster unity and collective action among Ghanaians.
The Nandom Naa’s message to the young ministers focuses on the urgent need to rebuild trust in the government and the democratic process, particularly among young Ghanaians who have become disillusioned by past political failures. He highlights the exodus of young people seeking greener pastures abroad as a direct consequence of this loss of faith. He believes that the youthful ministers, by their actions and commitment to good governance, can inspire hope and demonstrate that the system can indeed work for the benefit of all citizens. He encourages them to embrace innovation, create opportunities for broader participation in governance, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to serving the people.
Naa Prof Delle Chiir VIII commends the Mahama government’s stated commitment to “resetting the state” and driving national development. He underlines the importance of inclusivity in governance and the empowerment of young people as key pillars of this national renewal. He stresses that a more participatory and responsive democratic system is essential for sustainable progress. His advice to the young ministers goes beyond simply fulfilling their individual ministerial roles. He urges them to actively facilitate the inclusion of others in the governance process, opening up opportunities for wider engagement and collaboration.
The Nandom Naa’s vision of effective governance centers on inclusivity, empowerment, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of the citizenry. By setting a new standard of governance, characterized by transparency, accountability, and a focus on national development, he believes the government can foster greater trust and confidence among the populace, particularly the youth. This revitalized trust, in turn, will strengthen the democratic system and create a more stable and prosperous future for Ghana. He sees the young ministers as the key drivers of this transformative change, urging them to work “beyond the norm” and break down barriers to participation for others.
The interaction between Naa Prof Delle Chiir VIII and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, further underscores the significance of intergenerational collaboration and the respect for traditional leadership. Mr. Ablakwa acknowledges the Nandom Naa’s multifaceted contributions to Ghanaian society – as a renowned dermatologist, a seasoned politician, and a respected traditional leader. This recognition highlights the Naa’s stature as a statesman and his influence within the political landscape. Mr. Ablakwa also conveyed President Mahama’s gratitude for the warm reception he received during his campaign tour of the Nandom Traditional Area, signifying the importance of maintaining strong ties between the government and traditional authorities.
Beyond his political message, Naa Prof Delle Chiir VIII, a devout Catholic, also took the opportunity to express his deep sorrow at the passing of Pope Francis. He praised the late Pope as a “beacon of hope, love, and compassion” and emphasized his tireless dedication to peace, justice, and unity. Offering condolences on behalf of the Nandom Traditional Area and the Catholic community in Ghana, he called on Catholics worldwide to unite in prayer and seek solace in their faith. He urged them to honor Pope Francis’s legacy by striving to live lives of faith, hope, and charity and to be instruments of peace and unity in their communities. He recognized the profound void left by the Pope’s passing but emphasized the enduring power of his teachings and example to inspire future generations.
