Akwasidae Celebrations Restricted Amid Security Concerns

By: Joyce Owusu
August 31, 2026

The Central Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has imposed restrictions on this year’s Akwasidae celebrations in Dunkwa-On-Offin, citing security concerns arising from a prolonged chieftaincy dispute in the area. Under the directive, all Akwasidae rites, gatherings and celebrations must be held strictly within the walls of the palace, with any activities outside the designated area prohibited. The Council has also suspended the installation of any sub-chiefs or traditional leaders by either faction involved in the dispute, pending further engagements aimed at resolving the impasse.

In a letter dated August 28, 2026, and signed by the Central Regional Minister and Chairman of REGSEC, Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere, the Council said it had been monitoring the security situation surrounding the dispute and had received reports indicating that planned activities for the upcoming Akwasidae festival could pose a threat to public peace and safety. The directive forms part of measures to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order as the two sides remain embroiled in the chieftaincy dispute.

REGSEC warned that failure to comply with the restrictions would result in an immediate ban and the physical shutdown of all activities by state security agencies. It further ordered the suspension of all enstoolment processes and ceremonies until further notice, effectively putting on hold any attempt by either faction to install traditional leaders. The Council said the restrictions were necessary as a precautionary measure while efforts are made to bring the parties together for dialogue. REGSEC indicated that it would invite representatives of both sides to a resolution meeting in the coming days. The Council also said it would listen to the respective positions of the disputing parties before determining the appropriate way forward.

The move suggests that authorities are seeking to prevent the traditional celebration from becoming a flashpoint while simultaneously creating an avenue for the underlying chieftaincy dispute to be addressed through dialogue. Security agencies have meanwhile been deployed to monitor activities at the various palaces. REGSEC cautioned that any violation of its directives would attract swift arrest and prosecution, signalling a firm security posture ahead of the celebrations.

The restrictions come at a time when traditional festivals are expected to draw large gatherings and heightened activity, raising concerns that disagreements over traditional authority could escalate if not carefully managed. By limiting the Akwasidae celebrations to the palace premises and suspending all installation ceremonies, the Council through the directive copied to Odeefuo Boa Amponsem IV, Omanhene of Denkyira Jukwa, is seeking to minimise opportunities for confrontation between the rival factions while efforts to resolve the dispute continue.

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