CHIEFTAINCY INSTITUTION IN THE WALA TRADITIONAL AREA: EXAMINING THE PROCESSES OF SUCCESSION SINCE 1933

Abstract

The need for a broader consultation in the nomination, selection and installation of a chief especially the role of kingmakers in the prevention of conflict has long been considered by development partners and scholars. The main objective of the study was to trace chieftaincy succession and analyze the processes and procedures of installation in the Wala Traditional Area from 1933 to 2019. To achieve the objectives of the research, the study employed non-probability sampling techniques such as purposive and snowball sampling methods. The interview method was used to collect data from the respondents. The study revealed that the chieftaincy institution is a traditional one and should subject itself to traditional processes and procedures in the nomination, election and installation of chiefs. The first step towards meeting this requirement is the composition of a king making body. The kingmakers are:Busa Na, Kperisi Na, Sing Na, Guli Na, Tendana, Yari Na and Foroko. It has also been established that when a vacancy occurs resulting from the death of a Wa Na, the gate whose turn it is to nominate a candidate meet to deliberate on the nominee. When this is done, the name is forwarded to the Registrar of the Wala Traditional Council by the senior prince of the gate in question who convenes a meeting of the kingmakers for an election. A simple majority decides the faith of the nominee. A date for installation is then fixed for the Foroko to swear the Wa Na elect into office. The study revealed that there have been some breaches in the processes of succession since 1933. There has also been some form of disagreement between customs and traditions on one hand and the court system on the other hand. For example, the iii

system of succession by rotation has been breached. It has been established through the study that it is now the turn of Dinokpong ward and not Pelpuo Jaga ward of Yijiihi royal gate to present a candidate to succeed the late Wa Na Yakubu Seidu Soale II in line with the principle of fairness and equity used by the court system to give Naang to Na Yakubu Seidu Soale II. Therefore, Wa Na Fuseini Pelpuo IV was not the rightful candidate to have been installed as Wa Na. The study further revealed that the processes and procedures in the selection and installation of a Wa Na over the years have been influenced by politicians because they control too many resources in the form of logistics and access to state security apparatus.