Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has warned government officials not to use political power to meddle in chieftaincy affairs, pointing out that position is only transitory.
Speaking on Monday, April 20, 2026, at an Asanteman Council meeting, Otumfuo denounced what he called increasing political meddling in customary conflicts, citing events in Sampa and other regions.
“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,” he stated.
In areas like Sampa, Nkyeraa, Amantim, and portions of Asante Akyem, where opposing claimants continue to establish power, he voiced alarm over what he saw as disrespect for court rulings.
“There is a court ruling in favour of Amantimhene, yet someone is 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 reiterated.
Otumfuo continued, citing the circumstances in Sampa, saying, “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.”
The Asantehene also chastised certain Asante Paramount Chiefs for what he called a lack of response to the occurrences.
“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 remarked.
He urged traditional elders to protect the integrity of the kingdom, citing Asante resistance figures like Tweneboa Koduah and Yaa Asantewaa.
He stated, “Now we have all turned into women,” and vowed to oppose any attempts to prevent Bono and Bono East’s traditional authority from honouring him.
Source: newsthemegh.com