The Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, has advocated the repeal of Article 94(2)(a) of the 1992 Constitution, which prohibits Ghanaians with dual citizenship from becoming Members of Parliament (MPs).He explained how the valuable international exposure and expertise they had would help the legislative process. “The international exposure and expertise of Ghanaians with dual citizenship would significantly contribute to Ghana’s development.
“It’s time to repeal this restrictive law and tap into the skills and perspectives of our diasporan citizens,” Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu, who is also a High Court Judge, said. Speaking at a fundraising dinner in Newark, New Jersey, in the United States of America, the Dormaahene highlighted the significant economic impact of diasporan remittances and the right of diasporans to shape Ghana’s laws and policies.
The event was to raise funds for a dialysis centre in Sunyani, the Bono regional capital. The fundraiser was organised by the Council of Bono and Ahafo Citizens in America (COBAANA) and brought together esteemed guests, dignitaries and diasporan Ghanaians.
The COBAANA is a non-profit organisation promoting Ghana’s welfare and development, with the Dormaahene as the life patron of the association.
A notable highlight of the event was the pledge by the President and Chief Executive Officer of World Medical Relief, Dr George V. Samson, to donate $5 million worth of medical equipment and medicines to the dialysis centre in Sunyani; a pledge of $50,000 from the Executive President of Nick Holdings, Dr Nick Danso-Abiam; as well as other pledges by the Dormaahene, and the Bono Regional House of Chiefs.
Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu emphasised the crucial role of diasporans in driving national development and called for inclusive governance and diaspora investment. He encouraged diasporans to invest in Ghana’s mining sector and assured them of his willingness to provide land for investment to foster economic growth.
“I urge Ghanaians abroad to pool resources and invest in our mining sector, ensuring that revenue from gold and other resources drive development and growth. I’m willing to provide land for investments that foster economic collaboration and growth,” the Dormaahene said.
Oseadeayo Agyeman Badu also extended an invitation to celebrate his silver jubilee and the Dormaa Kwafie festival in December 2024. “Let’s work together to promote national development, international cooperation and cultural exchange,” the Dormaahene said. “I invite you all to join me in celebrating my silver jubilee and the Dormaa Kwafie festival.”
The Dormaahene was accompanied by the Omanhene of Suma Traditional Area, Odeneho Dr Affram Brempong II, and the Queen mother of Chiraa, Nana Yeboaa PeneI II, who is also the Benkumhemaa of Dormaa.
Source: Daily Graphic
