Professor Odaifio Welentsi III, the Nungua Mantse, has been elected President of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs (GARHC). His appointment follows the withdrawal of his only competitor, Ga Mantse King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, leaving him to assume the role unopposed.
Until his election, Professor Welentsi III had been serving as Vice President and acting President of the House. He assumed the interim role following the passing of the Paramount Chief of the Shai Osudoku Traditional Area, the previous President of the House.
In his new capacity, Professor Welentsi III will lead the GARHC for a four-year term, as stipulated by the Chieftaincy Act 759 of 2008, which mandates elections for the position every four years.
The election also saw Nene Tetteh Wakah III, the Paramount Chief of Prampram, elected as Vice President. Both leaders took their oaths of office and secrecy, which were administered by Ms Bacilia Adjei-Tawiah, a circuit court judge.
In her address, Ms Adjei-Tawiah urged the newly elected chiefs to use their positions to promote peace and development, cautioning them to avoid unnecessary litigation in chieftaincy matters.
Expressing his gratitude, Professor Welentsi III called his election a “victory for all” and a collective responsibility. He pledged to rely on the counsel of his colleagues, especially during critical moments, and asked for forgiveness for any past offences he may have caused.
“I see this role as a shared responsibility,” he said. “While I bring my experience and knowledge, I will need the input of my fellow chiefs to ensure we achieve the best outcomes for our people.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor and promised to build on them while introducing his own initiatives for the benefit of the region.
Professor Welentsi III’s election marks the start of a new chapter for the GARHC, with hopes high for progress and unity under his leadership.
Source:TheDotNews