Oti Chiefs Propose 30% District Assembly Seats, Call for Power and Revenue Sharing

ACCRA, Ghana – July 27, 2025 – Traditional leaders in Ghana's Oti Region are calling for a significant share of power and revenue, proposing that 30% of district assembly seats be allocated to chiefs. This bold proposition, reported by Graphic Online, aims to formally integrate traditional authority into local governance and ensure a direct share of district revenues for development initiatives under their purview.

The chiefs, whose exact identities were not specified in the graphic but are visibly present in the accompanying image, articulated their demand during a recent gathering. They argue that this "power and revenue sharing" model would empower traditional institutions, allowing them to play a more direct and impactful role in local development and decision-making processes. They believe that their proximity to the grassroots and deep understanding of community needs make them essential partners in governance.

The proposal raises important questions about the balance between traditional authority and modern democratic structures, and how resources are distributed at the local level. It is expected to spark debate among policymakers, civil society organizations, and the general public regarding the structure of local governance in Ghana.

The government has yet to officially respond to the chiefs' proposal. However, such a move, if adopted, would represent a significant shift in the decentralization framework and could set a precedent for other regions.