Torgbiga Wenya III opposes proposed elevation of 36 Anlo chiefs to Paramount status

The Dutor of the Anlo Dukor, Torgbiga Wenya III, has voiced opposition to a plan by the Awoamefia, Torgbi Sri III, to elevate 36 settlements within the Anlo State to the rank of Paramountcies. Torgbiga Wenya III, backed by the Council of Elders of the Loafe Clan, denounced the proposal as an attempt to undermine the traditional authority structures of the Anlo Kingdom.

This response came in a communique signed by Fiator Ing. Etsey Gbekor, Secretary to the Loafe Clan Council of Elders, following an invitation extended on September 17, 2026. The Dutor argued that Torgbi Sri III lacks the authority to elevate chiefs to the status of paramount chiefs, asserting that such actions would disrupt the existing traditional structures of the Anlo Kingdom.

He further pointed out that all the designated chiefs are already under established paramountcies, according to long-standing customs and history. The Dutor accused certain individuals managing the affairs of Torgbi Sri III, who is currently incapacitated due to age and health issues, of instigating the proposed elevation to serve their own interests.

He urged the Awoamefia to cease any plans for a proposed elevation ceremony to prevent chaos within the traditional structures of the Anlo Kingdom. The Loafe clan directed the Dutor to halt any such attempt immediately, warning of potential withdrawal of his customary authority and the declaration of his office vacant if he proceeded.

The Loafe clan also recommended the nomination of a Regent to exercise the powers of the Awoamefia pending the commencement of necessary customary rites, drawing parallels with previous situations where incapacitated leaders were temporarily ruled by a Regent.