‘Power is transient; stay out of chieftaincy matters’ — Otumfuo to politicians

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has cautioned government appointees against using political power to interfere in chieftaincy matters, warning that authority in office is temporary.

Speaking at a meeting of the Asanteman Council on Monday, April 20, 2026, Otumfuo criticised what he described as growing political interference in traditional disputes, singling out developments in Sampa and other areas.

“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 said.

He expressed concern over what he described as disregard for judicial decisions in communities such as Sampa, Nkyeraa, Amantim, and parts of Asante Akyem, where rival claimants continue to assert authority.

“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.

Citing the situation in Sampa, Otumfuo added, “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 criticised some Paramount Chiefs within Asante for what he described as a lack of action in addressing the developments.

“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.

Referencing the history of Asante resistance, he invoked figures such as Tweneboa Koduah and Yaa Asantewaa, urging traditional leaders to defend the integrity of the kingdom.

“Now we have all turned into women,” he said, while vowing to resist any attempts to block traditional authorities in Bono and Bono East from paying homage to him.