Gbese Dzase Petitions Ga Traditional Council Over Disputed Enstoolment

The Legitimate Gbese Dzase, the recognized Council of Kingmakers, has petitioned the Ga Traditional Council to suspend and investigate Thomas Okine, whom they accuse of unlawfully occupying the Gbese Stool.

According to the Dzase, Mr. Okine’s enstoolment was carried out by a breakaway faction without the mandate of the legitimate kingmakers. They argue that the process not only violates established Ga customs but also disregards court rulings and breaches the binding 1941 Gbese Succession Agreement, which regulates ascension to the stool.

Allegations of Irregularities

In the petition, the Dzase detailed several irregularities they claim undermine Mr. Okine’s legitimacy. These include alleged contempt of court in relation to earlier rulings, actions described as subversive to peace and stability in the Ga State, and his failure to perform the mandatory oath-swearing ceremony, a critical rite required of any enstooled Gbese Mantse.

Demands to the Ga Traditional Council

Based on these claims, the Dzase has urged the Ga Traditional Council to take swift action. Their petition outlined three main demands, including the immediate suspension of Thomas Okine from all roles and privileges tied to the Gbese Stool, a formal public declaration nullifying his enstoolment, and enforcement of the 1941 Succession Agreement, reaffirming the authority of the legitimate Dzase.

The petition stresses that resolving the dispute is essential to safeguarding the stability, order, and cultural heritage of the Ga State.

Call for Broad Support

Beyond their appeal to the Traditional Council, the Dzase has also called on the media, traditional leaders, and the wider public to support efforts to protect Ga customary law and uphold the integrity of the Gbese chieftaincy institution.

Looking ahead, the Dzase pledged that once the dispute is resolved, they will move forward with the lawful enstoolment of a new Gbese Mantse, strictly in line with the 1941 Succession Agreement, relevant Supreme Court rulings, and established Ga traditions.