Kumasi Traditional Council cautions politicians over remarks on Asantehene

The Kumasi Traditional Council has issued a stern warning to the public to refrain from discussing alleged derogatory remarks reportedly made by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, against the Asantehene, Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II.

Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI, the Bantamahene who presided over the council, emphasized the need for caution in public utterances, reminding political figures to avoid entangling the chieftaincy institution in their political affairs. He urged, “Be mindful of your utterances; people are watching you. We don't want anyone to discuss this issue again. Everyone should cease fire.”

The council also reprimanded Nana Kwaku Duah, the Chief of Kokosu, for his active involvement in politics, contrary to Ghana's constitution, which prohibits chiefs from engaging in partisan politics. Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI stated firmly, “From now onwards, Nana Kokosuhene must desist from party politics if he wants to maintain his stool.”

The altercation stemmed from accusations made by Nana Kwaku Duah against Chairman Wontumi during the New Patriotic Party's Parliamentary aspirant vetting. However, Chairman Wontumi denied all allegations before the Kumasi Traditional Council, where he was summoned along with top NPP figures.

During the deliberation, various Divisional Chiefs faulted Nana Kwaku Duah for meddling in politics and advised him to choose between his roles as a chief and a politician. Chairman Wontumi was also rebuked for pronouncing curses on the Kokosu Chief and his family.

Despite doubts raised by some chiefs regarding Chairman Wontumi's alleged remarks against the Asantehene, the Traditional Council directed him to perform rituals to reverse the curses pronounced on Nana Kwaku Duah and his family.

Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Minister, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, acknowledged the lessons learned by the NPP from the incident, echoing the sentiment that chiefs should refrain from active political involvement. He emphasized the significance of heeding the calls of traditional leaders for peace and respect.

Notable NPP figures present during the meeting included the Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei Mensah, Majority Leader Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu, and other party executives.