The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has cautioned government appointees against using political power to interfere in chieftaincy matters, stressing that authority in public office is temporary.
Speaking at a meeting of the Asanteman Council, the revered traditional leader expressed concern over what he described as increasing political involvement in traditional disputes, particularly in areas such as Sampa and surrounding communities.
“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.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II criticised what he sees as a growing disregard for judicial rulings in chieftaincy cases, citing ongoing tensions in communities including Sampa, Nkyeraa, Amantim, and parts of Asante Akyem, where rival claimants continue to assert authority despite court decisions.
“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 said.
Addressing the situation in Sampa, the Asantehene raised concerns over alleged external interference.
“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,” he declared.
He also took aim at some Paramount Chiefs within Asante, accusing them of failing to act decisively in the face of the disputes.
“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 said.
Invoking the legacy of historic Asante figures such as Tweneboa Koduah and Yaa Asantewaa, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II urged traditional leaders to defend the authority and integrity of the chieftaincy institution.
“Now we have all turned into women,” he remarked, while vowing to resist any attempts to prevent traditional authorities in Bono and Bono East regions from paying homage to him.