Fiator David Selom Hukportie of the Aflao Traditional Area has called for a review of the criteria for appointing chiefs onto Judicial Committees of Traditional Councils.
He believes that incorporating Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) qualification into the selection process will enhance the effectiveness of chiefs in resolving chieftaincy, family and land disputes. 
“Chiefs serving on the Judicial Committees must at least have a certification in ADR, in addition to their expertise,” he stated.
In an interview on ways to address the menace of chieftaincy, family and land disputes across the country, Fiator Hukportie of the Torgbui Amegadze Anubo Royal Stool, Avoeme of Aflao Traditional Area, emphasized that chiefs appointed to these committees should be equipped with ADR knowledge and skills to enable them to handle disputes efficiently.
While recommending chiefs, queenmothers and other traditional leaders for contributing to the resolution of community disputes, he argued that this measure would significantly reduce the high number of prolonged chieftaincy, family and land disputes that frequently escalate into violent conflicts across the country.
According to him, chiefs can acquire such training through recognized institutions such as the Gamey and Gamey ADR Institute, which offers quality and advanced training in ADR, particularly mediation.
He also commended the efforts of the existing Judicial Committees but stressed that the inclusion of ADR expertise would make their work more efficient and lead to progressive win-win outcomes.
Fiator Hukportie, a retired Chief Superintendent of Police and an ADR practitioner, urged traditional leaders to prioritize ADR interventions, particularly using mediation, in resolving disputes within their communities.
He underscored the benefits of ADR, noting that it fosters peaceful settlements and helps maintain social harmony and community development.
His call aligns with the recommendation by the Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo for increased ADR intervention in addressing chieftaincy and land disputes.
It adds to the growing advocacy for the adoption of ADR mechanisms in handling chieftaincy, family and land disputes, reinforcing its role as a tool for sustainable peace and development in traditional governance structures across Ghana.
