Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has dismissed claims that she sanctioned the arrest of the Kwahu Queen Mother, Nana Adwoa Gyemtua III, describing such reports as false and misleading.
The controversy arose after Agoo 96.9 FM published a story and video in which a chief, identified as Nana Nilm Sarpong, Abene Bamuhene, alleged that the Minister had confirmed authorising the Queen Mother’s arrest.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, Minister Awatey called the allegation a “misrepresentation of facts” and grounded in falsehood. She explained that on December 1, 2025, a delegation of Kwahu chiefs visited the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council to brief her on actions taken following the Queen Mother’s arrest and to follow up on a referral from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), C.O.P. Christian Tetteh Yahuna.
The chiefs informed her that the IGP had apologised for the incident, acknowledging that the arrest was carried out by police personnel, and that an investigation had been ordered into the conduct of the officers involved.
Minister Awatey clarified that her apology to the chiefs was not because she authorised the arrest, but in her capacity as Regional Minister and head of the Regional Security Council.
“Never in my submissions did I categorically say that I ordered the arrest of the Obahemaa,” she said. “I take responsibility not because I sanctioned it, but because I am in charge of those who were supposed to have acted better.”
She noted that her acceptance of responsibility aligns with the IGP’s position, who also apologised for the misconduct of his personnel.
Expressing concern over the misrepresentation of facts, the Minister stressed that the Regional Security Council remains focused on maintaining peace and security in the Eastern Region.
“We do not associate with any of the disputing parties,” she said, urging the public to disregard reports aimed at tarnishing her reputation and that of the Regional Security Council.
Minister Awatey reaffirmed her commitment to working with stakeholders to resolve the ongoing dispute and safeguard stability in the region.
