Krobo Bloc Leaders Condemn Okyere Baafi’s ‘Tribal’ Remarks, Demand Apology

Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) together with Constituency Chairpersons of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) from the Krobo bloc have strongly condemned comments made by the Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi, describing them as divisive, tribalistic and a threat to national cohesion.
At a press briefing, the group expressed “deep concern and disappointment” over remarks attributed to the MP, in which he suggested that Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, as a Krobo, could not direct affairs in New Juaben regarding a public facility in Koforidua.
According to the group, the comments are “wholly unacceptable, backward and derogatory,” arguing that such rhetoric undermines Ghana’s democratic values and peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic groups.
They stressed that the Eastern Region is a multi-ethnic enclave made up of Akans, Krobos, Guans, Ewes and others who have coexisted for generations, warning that no individual or group can claim exclusive ownership of the region.
The Krobo bloc leaders further emphasized that the Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, holds office by constitutional appointment and serves the entire region, not any particular ethnic group. They cautioned that attempts to reduce her authority to tribal identity undermine the presidency and the rule of law.
They also took issue with what they described as disparaging remarks directed at the Municipal Chief Executive for New Juaben South, Ransford Owusu Boakye, stating that such comments weaken local governance and public confidence in leadership.
The group warned that the MP’s statements could inflame ethnic tensions and erode the longstanding social and economic ties between the Krobo and New Juaben communities, which have historically coexisted through intermarriages and shared development.
While expressing disappointment, the leaders noted that the remarks were not entirely surprising, alleging that the MP had made similar statements in the past. They also referenced his earlier public pledge to resign should the NDC win the Akwatia by-election, a promise they claim remains unfulfilled.
Demands for Retraction and Apology
The group called on Michael Okyere Baafi to immediately retract his comments and issue an unqualified apology to the Krobo people, the Eastern Regional Minister, the New Juaben Traditional Council, and residents of the Eastern Region.
They also criticized the silence of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), urging the party to distance itself from the remarks and take steps to prevent actions that could threaten peace in the region.
The Krobo bloc leaders concluded by calling on all stakeholders to reject divisive politics and instead focus on unity, collaboration and development.
They reaffirmed that Ghana’s strength lies in its diversity and unity, urging leaders at all levels to uphold these values in both words and actions.