Tension is mounting within the fishing community of the Kpone Traditional Area as two fishermen, Nii Tetteh Ashong II and Nii Nuertey Chawe III, assert themselves as the chief fishermen for the community, following a Supreme Court ruling on the matter.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Nii Nuertey Chawe III stated that the Supreme Court ruling on February 28, 2024, cleared him to hold the position of chief fisherman for the Kpone fishing community. He expressed readiness to spearhead the development of the Kpone landing beaches and uplift the image of fishing in the area, including plans to construct a modern fishing harbour.
Conversely, Nii Tetteh Ashong II expressed surprise and disbelief upon hearing his contender's claims and supporters' jubilation in the community. He clarified that the Supreme Court ruling did not strip him of his position as chief fisherman, emphasizing that such acts could be deemed as contempt of court. According to him, the ruling merely granted some relief sought by the complainant following a Court of Appeals judgment in July 2022, and it does not determine who should hold the title of chief fisherman.
Nii Tetteh Ashong II asserted his position as the gazetted chief fisherman recognized by the National House of Chiefs and the Kpone Traditional Council, highlighting that the details of the Supreme Court judgments were yet to be disclosed, with the parties scheduled to receive the judgment on March 7, 2024.
The Ghana News Agency observed jubilant supporters of Nii Nuertey Chawe III celebrating on the streets of Kpone, underscoring the escalating tension within the fishing community over the disputed chief fisherman title.
The situation underscores the need for clarity and resolution to prevent further tensions and maintain peace within the Kpone fishing community. Authorities are urged to address the matter promptly and ensure adherence to legal processes to uphold the rule of law and preserve community harmony.
