Asantehene Rebukes Paramount Chiefs Over Silence on Chieftaincy Violations
Asantehene Urges Stronger Leadership from Chiefs to Safeguard Asanteman’s Authority and Heritage
- Otumfuo Osei Tutu II criticises chiefs for inaction over chieftaincy disputes in Bono areas.
- Calls for courage, citing historic leaders like Yaa Asantewaa.
- Reaffirms Asanteman’s authority and allegiance to the Golden Stool.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the conduct of some Asante Paramount Chiefs, accusing them of failing to act against alleged breaches of traditional authority in parts of the Bono Region.
Speaking at the Asanteman Council on 20 April 2026, the Asantehene said he was disappointed that several chiefs had remained passive while what he described as violations of chieftaincy norms were taking place within Asanteman jurisdictions.
He questioned their silence, suggesting that many were leaving the responsibility of defending the kingdom’s authority solely to the Manhyia Palace.
Otumfuo drew attention to the legacy of past Asante leaders who, he said, demonstrated exceptional courage in defending the kingdom. He referenced historical figures such as Tweneboa Kodua, who is remembered for sacrificing his life for Asante, and Yaa Asantewaa, who led the War of the Golden Stool.
By contrast, he expressed concern that present-day leadership appeared less assertive in protecting Asante’s traditional interests.
The Asantehene warned that continued inaction by chiefs could weaken the authority and unity of Asanteman. He urged them to take a more proactive role in safeguarding traditional jurisdictions rather than relying solely on the Asantehene to intervene.
He further reaffirmed that areas in the Bono and Bono East Regions remain part of Asanteman and insisted that their allegiance to the Golden Stool is non-negotiable. He also vowed to resist any attempts to prevent traditional authorities from those areas from paying homage at the Manhyia Palace.
The remarks underscore ongoing tensions around chieftaincy authority and jurisdictional loyalty within parts of the traditional Ashanti kingdom.
