The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is cautioning the public against disturbances and chaos in the metropolis before, during and after the Homowo festival and the ChaleWote Street Art Festival.
The Assembly in a press statement said that it has observed the gradual increase in the spate of disturbances and chieftaincy dispute within Ga Mashie and it will ensure that such incidents do not rise to become the norm.
“Such disturbances which often happen pre, during and post Homowo celebration period need to be nipped in the bud in order not to tarnish the image and the great culture of the Ga people,” the statement said.
“The City of Accra had witnessed some level of peace over the years but it appears the lack of respect for law and order is slowly creeping back as a norm. The Assembly therefore wishes to call on all persons within the city to respect the Public Order Act 1994 (ACT 491).”
The Assembly said its Metropolitan Security Committee (MESEC) will do everything within its power to ensure law and order in the city as plans advance towards the celebration of the two festivals.
The Homowo Festival is an annual traditional festival for the people of Ga Mashie and those in other indigenous Ga communities in Accra, characterized by massive jubilation and sprinkling of kpokpoi, a traditional food.
The festival brings together thousands of people including tourists who travel from far and near to observe the rich display of culture.
Although it has generally been peaceful, there has been incidents of chaos and confusion sometimes orchestrated by over-jubilant youth and feuding factions in chieftaincy disputes.
The ChaleWote Street Arts Festival which is Ghana’s biggest arts event held in Ga Mashie every year, also draws in thousands of arts lovers.