Development implications of the Kokwado chieftaincy conflict

Abstract

This study was aimed at examining the development implications of the Kokwado chieftaincy conflict in the Central region of Ghana. The study was a qualitative case study. Using a sample of 26 purposively selected respondents, the study collected data through interviews and focus group discussion. Data was collected on the nature of the conflict, the resolution mechanisms employed so far and the development implications of the conflict. The analysis of the data was thematic. The study unearthed that the conflict was caused by a single factor: division and misunderstanding over succession to the stool of Kokwado. The conflict is an intra-gate conflict; it is between members of the same royal family. The study also revealed that the conflict was nonviolent yet very difficult to resolve. The conflict is prolonged, has been difficult to resolve and therefore protracted. The conflict has varied development implications. While affecting the economic and health life of the community negatively, the social and cultural life of the community seems to be ‘unaffected’. The study therefore recommended that there is need to: sensitize the people on the need for peace and the effects of conflict on the community’s development; put aside the court verdicts on the conflict; and employ mediation as a mechanism to help the factions to talk-out and address their differences in order to ensure peace, unity and stability in the Kokwado community. The study contributes to knowledge by revealing that a peaceful chieftaincy institution is more likely to attract and enhance development to and preserve the heritage of chiefdoms, kingdoms and communities