The Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs (GARHC) has elected Professor Odaifio Welentsi III, the Nungua Mantse, Oboade Notse King, as its president.
Professor Welentsi III served as the House’s vice president and interim president prior to his election.
After the Paramount Chief of Shai Osudoku Traditional Area passed away, Professor Welentsi III took over as the House’s interim president.
In a letter to Mrs. Gladys Pinkrah, the Greater Accra Regional Director of the Electoral Commission, the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, withdrew his first application to run for office.
This made it possible for Professor Welentsi III to proceed without opposition.
In accordance with Act 759 of 2008, which mandates that elections for the presidency be held every four years, he will now hold the office for four years before a new election is held.
Nene Tetteh Wakah III, the Paramount Chief of Prampram Traditional Area, was also chosen to the position of Vice President, GARHC.
Ms. Bacilia Adjei-Tawiah, a circuit court judge, administered the oath of office and the oath of secrecy to Professor Welentsi III and his vice.
The court counseled the chiefs to use their position to promote peace and progress after delivering the oaths.
They were advised by Ms. Adjei-Tawiah to separate chieftaincy issues from legal proceedings.
Throughout his speech, Professor Welentsi III conveyed his sincere appreciation to the chiefs for choosing him to be president.
His election, he said, was a “victory for all” and a call to serve the public interest.
He declared:
“I consider this not just my personal victory, but a victory for all of us. While I will be assuming the role of President for the next term, I see it as a responsibility to be shared with all of you,”
“Also I would need the counsel and assistance of fellow comrades to fulfil my duties to the best of my ability. I will actively seek input from our former President’s and other members of the House on matters of mutual interest.”
“I hope and trust that you will make yourselves available to me when I reach out to you, particularly during urgent and critical moments.”
The President of GARHC apologized to those he may have offended and said he would improve on the contribution of his predecessor.”
“As human beings, we are fallible and can make mistakes, whether by omission or commission. I would like to take this opportunity to apologize if I have intentionally or unintentionally caused any offense or inconvenience to any member in the past or present. I sincerely ask for your forgiveness.”
“As your President, I have my own distinct vision and may have different approaches to certain subject matters and activities compared to my predecessor. However, I assure you that I will honour and expand upon his contribution – while I introduce new ideas for the benefit of all.”
