Oboade Notse King Professor Odaifio Welentsi III, the Nungua Mantse, has been elected President of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs (GARHC).
Previously serving as Vice President and acting President following the passing of the former President, the Paramount Chief of Shai Osudoku Traditional Area, Professor Welentsi III stepped into the role unopposed after Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, withdrew his candidacy.
Professor Welentsi III, elected to a four-year term as GARHC President, will work alongside Nene Tetteh Wakah III, Paramount Chief of the Prampram Traditional Area, who was elected Vice President.
The two leaders took the oaths of office and secrecy, administered by Circuit Court Judge Ms. Bacilia Adjei-Tawiah, who urged them to use their positions to foster peace and avoid conflicts in chieftaincy affairs.
In his acceptance speech, Professor Welentsi III expressed gratitude to the chiefs, viewing his election as a shared victory and calling for unity to advance the region’s interests.
“I consider this not just my personal victory, but a victory for all of us. While I will be assuming the role of President for the next term, I see it as a responsibility to be shared with all of you.”
He committed to drawing on the experience of his fellow chiefs and former GARHC presidents to fulfill his responsibilities effectively.
Recognizing that different perspectives may arise, he promised to honour his predecessor’s legacy while introducing new ideas for collective benefit.
“As your President, I have my own distinct vision and may have different approaches to certain subject matters and activities compared to my predecessor. However, I assure you that I will honour and expand upon his contribution – while I introduce new ideas for the benefit of all.”
He also extended apologies to anyone he might have unintentionally offended, pledging to lead with respect, openness, and dedication.
Source:opemsuo.com