The National House of Chiefs has called for full institutional independence, arguing that its continued placement under the Ministry of Local Government contradicts provisions of the 1992 Constitution.

The House made the appeal during an engagement with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs in Kumasi.

Speaking at the meeting, the President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi II, stressed that the institution requires autonomy to function effectively and secure adequate financial resources for its operations.

According to him, the House currently faces severe financial constraints, citing what he described as inadequate allowances and budgetary support for its members and leadership.

He disclosed that the institution receives limited financial allocations, including a monthly allowance of GHS3,000, a sitting allowance of GHS300 for the President, GHS200 for members, and transportation allowances, with the highest amount pegged at GHS1,200 depending on destination.

Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi II argued that granting the House independent status, similar to constitutional bodies such as the Electoral Commission, would ensure proper resource allocation and improve operational efficiency.

He further proposed that while the process of attaining full constitutional independence may take time, the government could, as an interim measure, place the institution directly under the Presidency to enhance administrative coordination and support.

Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Dr Fred Kyei Asamoah, explained that the Committee’s engagement with the National House of Chiefs formed part of efforts to better understand the challenges confronting the chieftaincy institution and explore possible solutions to strengthen its operations.