The Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has cautioned government appointees against using political power to interfere in chieftaincy matters, stressing that authority is temporary and must not be abused.
Speaking at a meeting of the Asanteman Council on Monday, April 20, the Asantehene expressed concern over what he described as growing interference in traditional disputes, particularly in Sampa and other parts of the country.
He warned that those in power should not assume their positions give them unchecked control, noting that political authority is not permanent.
Otumfuo also raised concerns about the disregard for court rulings in communities such as Sampa, Nkyeraa, Amantim and parts of Asante Akyem, where rival claimants continue to assert authority despite legal decisions.
He cited instances where individuals continue to present themselves as chiefs in defiance of court rulings, undermining legitimate authority and destabilising traditional governance structures.
Referring specifically to developments in Sampa, he criticised the situation where an individual he described as a foreigner is claiming royal status and acting as chief despite existing rulings.
The Asantehene further questioned the inaction of some Paramount Chiefs within Asante, expressing disappointment over their silence on the issue.
Invoking the legacy of historic figures such as Tweneboa Koduah and Yaa Asantewaa, he urged traditional leaders to uphold the dignity and authority of the Asante Kingdom.
Otumfuo reaffirmed his commitment to defending the integrity of the chieftaincy institution and vowed to resist any attempts to block chiefs from Bono and Bono East from paying homage to him.
