The GaDangme Council of Asafoiatsɛmɛi and Nyɛmɛi has called on government to intervene in the ongoing dispute between MacDan Aviation Limited and the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) over the company’s operations at Terminal One of the Kotoka International Airport.

Addressing a press conference in Accra on Monday, the council expressed concern over GACL’s decision to disengage MacDan Aviation from services it renders at Terminal One, citing alleged indebtedness. The Council noted that the claims of debt have been disputed by MacDan Aviation, raising questions about the basis for the decision.

According to the group, their involvement in the matter stems from the direct and indirect impact the company has on their members. They revealed that approximately 300 members of the Council are employed by MacDan Aviation across the country, while an additional 500 individuals depend on monthly stipends provided by the company’s Managing Director.

The council lamented the economic challenges facing traditional authorities in the GaDangme areas, particularly in Accra and Tema, stating that many stools lack the financial capacity to support their people. They accused some companies operating in Tema of failing to honor or incorporate ground rent arrangements that could benefit local traditional councils.

Drawing a comparison to Ghana’s engagements with international financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, the Council questioned why MacDan Aviation could not be given the opportunity to renegotiate its obligations instead of facing termination.

They further called on the Presidency, located at the Jubilee House, to step in and facilitate a resolution, referencing a similar intervention by the government under former President Nana Akufo-Addo three years ago when a comparable situation arose.

The council also raised concerns about what they described as growing and “unjustifiable” competition over the control of Terminal One, warning that the situation could escalate if not handled fairly. They credited MacDan Aviation with revitalizing the previously abandoned terminal in 2016, transforming it into a viable and attractive facility.

Highlighting broader grievances, the group pointed to what they described as systemic marginalization of the GaDangme people in Ghana’s political and economic landscape.

They argued that despite their contributions and historical significance, including the role of national heroes such as Sgt Adjetey and Lance Corporal Odartey Lamptey, their communities continue to face neglect.

The council announced plans to engage key stakeholders, including the Ga Traditional Council, elders, and Members of Parliament of GaDangme descent, to address issues affecting their livelihoods and advocate for greater fairness and inclusion.

They concluded by calling for equity across all sectors of national life, emphasizing their resolve to resist what they termed selective injustice and marginalisation.