Friday, 12 December

Traditional spiritual overlords demand national recognition

News
ev. Daniel Gyasi Ankrah

Traditional Spiritual Overlords from across the country are calling on the government to grant greater national recognition to indigenous spiritual practitioners and elevate the role of traditional religion in Ghana’s governance framework.

The call was contained in a communiqué read at a press conference in Accra by Rev. Daniel Gyasi Ankrah.

The document, signed by the Tindana of Tamale and several prominent spiritual leaders nationwide, outlines a series of proposals aimed at strengthening the visibility and influence of Ghana’s indigenous spirituality.

A key demand is the establishment of a Second Chamber of Traditional Spiritual Practitioners to work alongside the Regional and National Houses of Chiefs.

According to the group, such a chamber would provide guidance on cultural preservation and help chiefs and clans uphold ancient customs.

The Overlords are also advocating the creation of a national holiday dedicated to traditional spirituality.

They argue that while Christian and Muslim festivals are officially recognised, indigenous religion—despite its centuries-long contribution to community life—has never been similarly honoured.

Education was another major concern highlighted in the communiqué.

The group said some students who wear beads, keep dreadlocks, or follow barefoot traditions are being asked by schools to alter their appearance.

They described the practice as discriminatory and a breach of the constitutional right to equal access to education.

The leaders further criticised the exclusive reliance on the Bible and Quran for oath-taking in Ghana’s courts.

They want citizens who practice traditional spirituality to be given the option to swear by their own deities during legal proceedings.

The communiqué called on state institutions to deepen collaboration with traditional practitioners, emphasising that respect for indigenous culture is essential for national unity and sustainable development.

 

The Spiritual Overlords stressed that their message is not only for the government but for the international community as well, reaffirming their commitment to peace and the protection of Ghana’s cultural heritage.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Gordon Desmond Sackitey