In a decisive move to ensure a peaceful and incident-free Masquerade Festival in January 2026, the Effutu Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) on Thursday convened a crucial stakeholders’ meeting with leaders of all five Masquerade groups and the Federation of Masqueraders in Winneba.
The meeting, held at the Municipal Assembly Hall, brought together security chiefs and leadership of the renowned masquerade groups in what officials described as a “proactive, confidence-building dialogue.”
For years, the celebrated Winneba Masquerade Festival, an iconic cultural event that draws thousands of visitors has faced sporadic tensions fueled by deep-seated rivalries among some groups. Thursday’s engagement sought to diffuse these longstanding disputes, strengthen collaboration, and reaffirm the shared commitment to a smooth, unified celebration that showcases the heritage and hospitality of the Effutu people.
Leaders of all five groups, namely; Nobles, Egyaa, Tumus, Red Cross, and Royals presented detailed reports on past challenges and offered proposals to enhance coordination, security, and festival logistics. The discussions ranged from crowd control and procession routes to costume display times and disciplinary measures for misconduct.
Participants openly expressed concerns, aspirations, and expectations, resulting in what many described as one of the most transparent consultations in recent years.
By the close of deliberations, all groups pledged to work collectively with MUSEC and security agencies to promote total peace before, during, and after the festivities.
Addressing the gathering, the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Rev. Atta Mensah, applauded the groups for embracing dialogue and urged them to resist any temptation to engage in retaliatory acts over past grievances.
“The security of Effutu is paramount,” he stressed. “We will not allow the actions of a few individuals to undermine the peace we all enjoy.”
He emphasized that the Municipal Security Council is fully empowered to place a temporary halt on the festival should intelligence point to looming threats or activities likely to destabilize the municipality.
“Anyone, whether an individual or a group who breaks the law will be dealt with accordingly,” the MCE warned.
The MCE also advised the groups to guard against the infiltration of partisan politics, noting that political polarization has the potential to sow division and mar the beauty and authenticity of the festival.
In a statement that drew applause from attendees, Rev. Atta Mensah reaffirmed that no group will be barred from participating in the upcoming festival, a departure from a controversial decision made several years ago.
He further reminded the groups of Winneba’s enviable reputation as the home of masquerading, whose rich traditions have inspired similar festivals both locally and internationally.
The Divisional Police Commander, ACP Opoku Ibrahim, assured the groups of the Police Service’s readiness to provide robust security throughout the festive period.
“We are fully prepared operationally and logistically to ensure the safety of residents, visitors, and all participating groups,” he stated.
He urged the groups to choose the path of peace, stressing that the splendor of the festival is best seen when unity prevails.
A Renewed Spirit of Unity
By the end of the meeting, stakeholders expressed optimism that the 2026 festival would mark a new chapter of unity and discipline among the masquerade groups. With renewed commitments, strengthened communication channels, and security agencies on high alert, Effutu looks set to host one of the most vibrant and peaceful masquerade festivals in recent memory.
As Winneba prepares to welcome revelers, tourists, and investors from across the world, the municipality aims to showcase not only its cultural brilliance but also its capacity for harmony and collaborative development.
STORY BY: CHARLES BAAH ABOAGYE
PICTURE CREDIT: JUDITH OCRAN
ISD – EFFUTU MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY
Discover more from Hot Stories Ghana
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
