The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has cautioned government appointees against interfering in chieftaincy disputes, reminding them that political power is temporary and should not be used to undermine traditional authority.
Speaking at a meeting of the Asanteman Council at the Manhyia Palace on Monday, April 20, 2026, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed concern over what he described as increasing political meddling in traditional matters, particularly in areas such as Sampa and other communities within the Ashanti Kingdom and beyond.
“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,” the Asantehene stated.
He highlighted several instances where court rulings on chieftaincy disputes appear to be disregarded. In Amantim, despite a court decision in favour of the legitimate Amantimhene, another individual continues to assert authority as chief. Similar situations were noted in Nkyeraa, which has been recognised as a Divisional Council in the House of Chiefs.
Otumfuo was particularly firm on developments in Sampa, where he said an Ivorian national has been parading himself as a royal and chief in defiance of established rulings.
“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.
The Asantehene also took some Paramount Chiefs within Asanteman to task for what he perceived as inaction in addressing these issues.
“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 criticised.
Drawing on the rich history of Asante resistance, Otumfuo invoked the legacies of legendary figures such as Tweneboa Kodua and Yaa Asantewaa, urging traditional leaders to stand firm in defence of the kingdom’s integrity.
“Now we have all turned into women,” he remarked pointedly, while vowing that he would not allow any attempts to prevent traditional authorities in Bono and Bono East from paying homage to him.