The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has officially destooled Nana Kusi Baaye II, the chief of Ohwim in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, due to multiple allegations of misconduct and violations of traditional laws.
Nana Kusi Baaye II, who had ruled for 16 years, was removed from office after being found guilty of several offenses, including desecration of the Great Oath, extortion, illegal land sales, and involvement in illegal mining.
The chief’s misconduct was brought to light during a Kumasi Traditional Council meeting held on Monday, February 24, 2025.
One of the key allegations against him was his dishonesty in a chieftaincy dispute, where he initially demanded ¢6,000 to testify in favor of the rightful landowners but later accepted a bribe from the opposing party and testified on their behalf.
His deceit was exposed by the Asantehene, proving that he had violated his oath of office and the sacred witness vow associated with the Great Oath.
Further accusations were presented by his sister, Akosua Nyame, who testified that Nana Kusi Baaye II disregarded the authority of the Great Oath after she invoked it three times to prevent him from illegally selling cemetery lands designated for royals and chiefs.
She stated that he dismissively remarked, “If the Great Oath has legs, let it come and arrest me.”
A former Biemso Dikro also provided testimony, revealing that the chief had unlawfully seized land under the false pretense that it had been acquired by the Asantehene for a solar project. It was later discovered that he was using the land for illegal mining, causing significant destruction to the area.
Additionally, it was alleged that Nana Kusi Baaye II obstructed the burial of the late Asikasuhene, who passed away five years ago.
Reports indicate that he burned the deceased chief’s belongings, which led to a prolonged delay in his burial. Furthermore, he was accused of orchestrating the wrongful arrest of several community leaders, six of whom have since passed away.
In response to these serious offenses, the Asantehene ordered the necessary traditional rites to be performed to formally remove Nana Kusi Baaye II from his position.
He also issued a stern warning to other chiefs, emphasizing that any leader who violates the Great Oath will face similar consequences.
“This is not only about him but to you all. Anybody that takes the Great Oath and goes against it will equally face consequences. From today, you are no longer the chief of Ohwim,” Otumfuo declared.
The destoolment serves as a strong message reinforcing the importance of integrity and adherence to traditional laws within the Ashanti Kingdom.
