The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has urged authorities to take firm action against chiefs accused of selling lands located in waterways and other flood-risk zones, warning that such practices are worsening the country’s flooding crisis.
The call was made on Thursday during his visit to several communities affected by flooding following the recent spillage of the Weija Dam. The incident has left homes and businesses underwater, forcing many residents to evacuate in haste.
Addressing the media, the Ga Mantse expressed concern that some traditional leaders are contributing to the problem by allocating lands that should remain undeveloped, including waterways and designated green belts.
He stressed that accountability is necessary to deter further violations.
According to him, chiefs found engaging in such activities must face arrest and prosecution, insisting that the misuse of protected lands has played a significant role in recurring flood disasters.
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II also called on government institutions, including the Regional Minister and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), to strictly enforce building regulations and environmental laws.
He acknowledged that enforcing these rules—especially through demolitions—may be difficult for affected individuals, but maintained that such measures are essential to safeguard lives and property.
While expressing sympathy for residents who may lose their structures, he emphasised that allowing illegal developments to persist would only lead to more severe consequences in the future.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has begun evacuation efforts to relocate affected residents to safer locations as part of emergency response measures.
