Kasoa Chiefs Perform Rituals, Invoke Deities Against MCE Over Landguard Allegation

There is growing tension in Awutu Senya East after traditional leaders of *Awutu Odupong* performed customary rites to invoke their deities against the *Municipal Chief Executive, Seth Sabah Serwonoo-Banini*.

The move follows accusations by the MCE that the chiefs had deployed landguards to harass residents of Jei River, a suburb of Awutu Ofaakor.

The dispute began after the chiefs boycotted a sod-cutting ceremony for a proposed *24-Hour Economy Market*. In a media interview, Mr. Serwonoo-Banini, who also chairs the Municipal Security Council, claimed the boycott was because of his efforts to maintain law and order in the area, and alleged the chiefs were using landguards.

*Chiefs Reject Claim*

The traditional leaders have denied the allegation. They say they do not use landguards but rely on traditional Asafo groups to monitor estate development in the area.

On Sunday, the chiefs gathered at the Awutu Ofaakor palace and poured libation to petition their ancestors. The Abusuapanin of Kasoa Ofaakor performed the “*Duabo*” ritual, an Awutu custom used to seek ancestral judgment against perceived wrongdoing.

*Project Stalled*

The disagreement has deepened friction between the Municipal Assembly and the Traditional Council. The planned 24-Hour Economy Market project remains stalled following the chiefs’ boycott.