The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has warned government appointees against interfering in chieftaincy disputes, saying political power is temporary and must not be used to undermine traditional authority.
Speaking at an Asanteman Council meeting on Monday (20 April), the King referenced ongoing tensions in parts of the Bono Region, including the Sampa chieftaincy dispute, where he accused some officials of disregarding court rulings.
“Your government is in power, so you think you can do whatever you please. Know that power is transient. Of course, you can go ahead and use that power for whatever you want now,” Otumfuo stated.
He cited alleged interference by officials, including Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak and Bono Regional Minister Joseph Addae Akwaboa, as well as other local government actors.
“There is a court ruling in favour of Amantimhene, yet there is someone exerting his authority as chief, resisting the legitimate chief. The same is taking place in Nkyeraa, which has been adopted as a Divisional Council in the House of Chiefs,” he said.
The Asantehene also pointed to the situation in Sampa, where he described continued chieftaincy tensions despite court decisions.
“Despite court rulings, an Ivorian is in Sampa carrying himself out as a royal and chief. Sampahene Gyafla will not die. The town belongs to him, and he will assume his rightful authority.”
Otumfuo criticised what he described as inaction by some Asante paramount chiefs, urging stronger defence of traditional authority.
“Why are our men sitting aloof for two people in Bono to misbehave. You are all waiting for Otumfuo to act. We are all silent. You want to protect your names.”
He referenced historic Asante figures such as Tweneboa Koduah and Yaa Asantewaa, saying the current attitude of some chiefs was disappointing.
“Now we have all turned into women,” he added.
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