TIG Post

Tag: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

  • Free SHS putting a strain on national budget – Otumfuo

    The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has bemoaned the effect of the government’s Free Senior High School (SHS) program on the country’s national budget.

    The Ashanti overlord spoke at the University of Memphis in the United States.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu also stressed the program’s impact on the level of unemployment in the country, despite being a good initiative.

    According to the Ashanti overlord, “Considering the value of education to the nation, this must be one of the boldest policies of the nation, but it also brings its challenges.”

    He, however, noted that: “It puts a huge strain on the national budget and raises further challenges about the creation of jobs for the increasing number of graduates. I am sure the brains assembled here in this audience and beyond will be reassured that Ghana is on the right path.”

    The Akufo-Addo-led government launched the free SHS program in 2017, fulfilling its campaign promise to the people.

    Recently, there has been pressure on the government to consider reviewing the program.

    Some have called for a review of the program, citing the threat to quality education and the pressure the policy puts on the country’s meagre national budget as reasons government needs to review the policy.

    Government has, however, stuck to the policy.

    Source: classfmonline.com

  • Why the British sent Prempeh I to exile in Seychelles – Otumfuo explains

    Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has revealed why the British eventually sent King Agyemang Prempeh I to exile in Seychelles.

    According to Otumfuo, the British authorities at the time were struggling to keep him close to his subjects who thronged places they knew he had been detained at.

    He linked that state of affairs to the absolute loyalty that the subjects had for King Prempeh even in detention.

    He said: “Wherever he was kept within the Gold Coast or West Africa, his people were prepared to walk to try and rescue him. Eventually they had to send him across the oceans to the Island of Seychelles.

    “Even then, the people waited for all the 25 years he was in exile until the British allowed him to return to Kumasi before they committed their loyalty to the Gold Coast,” Otumfuo added.

    The revered monarch was speaking during a lecture at the University of Memphis, in the United States of America on May 5, 2022.

    He also addressed the historic financial, military and territorial strength of the kingdom he leads today and how it had defended itself robustly against invaders.

    According to him, the British bid to control the kingdom was fiercely resisted for years before it took place: “we successfully fought off attempts at colonial conquest and remained fiercely independent until the beginning of the last century when King Prempeh I was taken into exile and Asanteman agreed to be integrated into the Gold Coast under British rule.

    “We have been resolute and true to our integration into the new nation state which is now the Republic of Ghana and have been unflinching in our determination to ensure its continuing prosperity,” he stated.

    The lecture was under the theme: “Contemporary challenges in US and Africa relations” and took place at the Rose Theatre of the University.

    Some of the participants included academics, students, university administrators, and some members of the Ghana Community in Memphis.

    In 1896 the British arrested and deported the Asantehene, Agyeman Prempeh I, to Seychelles in their efforts to colonize the Asante kingdom.

    This photo shows Asantehene Agyeman Prempeh when he arrived in the Seychelles from Sierra Leone to begin his exile

    Following this, and for a brief time, the Asantehene was exiled to Elmina, and then subsequently to Sierra Leone, before he finally settled in Seychelles.

    It must be noted that he however returned to Ghana in 1924, but only under the official designation of a “private citizen.”

    Two years later, Agyeman Prempeh was re-enstooled as “Kumasihene,” only a king over the Kumasi, rather than of all of the Asante kingdom, a status he retained until he died in 1931.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • His majesty is a symbol of peace and development – IGP eulogizes Otumfuo

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has said the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has been a symbol of peace, unity and development of the country.

    He prayed that God will continue to grant the King abundant wisdom and strength to do more for his people and nation.

    “He has been a symbol of unity and development of our country and I pray God will continue to give him the strength and wisdom to deliver what is best for his people and country,” Dr Dampare said.

    The IGP stated these when he received the Otumfuo Commemorative Gold Coin at his office in Accra on Tuesday, February 22, 2022.

    Dr Dampare gave the assurance that the police would continue to discharge their constitutional mandate to ensure that the country was peaceful.

    That, he said, would enable the people to undertake their lawful activities.

    “We will continue to do our best with team spirit so as to maintain the peace, and to protect lives and property,” he said.

    The IGP called for support from all Ghanaians for the police, “so that we will be able to arrive at our destination.”

    He added that it was the aim of the members of the police management to leave the service in a better capacity than they came to meet it.

    Dr Dampare thanked the E ON 3 Group and Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for the honor done him with the presentation of the coin.

    https://youtube.com/watch?v=dsii6gbWiwU

    Source: peacefmonline.com

  • President Akufo-Addo, others to receive Otumfuo commemorative gold coin

    Following the launch of the Otumfuo Gold Coin on December 12, 2021, to recognise His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his tremendous role in peacebuilding and national development, the organisers of the event, EON 3 Group, has embarked on special presentations of the Gold Coin to selected personalities.

    KGL Group acquired the first of the 24- karat Commemorative Gold Coin for One Million Ghana Cedis (GH¢1,000,000.00).

    Otumfuo Osei Osei Tutu II, in whose honour the gold coin was launched, has also been presented with the second of the Gold Coin.

    Dates for Presentation

    From January 27, 2022 to February 24, 2022, 20 personalities would be presented with the Gold Coin to demonstrate their resolve to support Otumfuo to further build on his peace initiatives.

    Top on the list is H.E. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo who will be receiving the 3rd coin; the Vice President; H.E. Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is billed to receive the 4th gold coin; Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin is scheduled to receive the 5th gold coin; the Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah, will be receiving the 6th gold coin; former President, John Agyekum Kufuor, will be presented with the 7th gold coin; H.E. John Dramani Mahama, former President will receive the 8th gold coin; Chief of Staff, Hon. Akosua Frema Osei- Opare will be presented with the 9th gold coin; Dr. Ernest Addision, Governor of the Bank of Ghana is scheduled to receive the 10th gold coin,

    Majority Leader in Parliament, Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu will be presented with the 11th gold coin; Minority Leader of Parliament, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, will be receiving the 12th gold coin, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, will be presented with the 13th gold coin; Rev. Dr. Ernest Adu-Gyamfi will be receiving the 14th gold coin; Executive Chairman of Jonah Capital, Sir Sam Jonah will be presented with the 15th gold coin; His Eminence, Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam is scheduled to receive the 16th gold coin; Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor will be presented the 17th gold coins; Rev. Daniel Ogbarmey Tetteh, Director General of Securities And Exchange Commission is slated to receive the 18th gold coin; Hon. Godfred Yeboah Dame, Attorney General and Minister of justice will be presented with the 19th gold coin; the Chief of the Defence Staff, Rear Admiral Seth Amoama will be receiving the 20th gold coin; the Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare will receive the 21st gold coin, while Mr Frank Adu, former Managing Director of Cal Bank receives the 22nd gold coin. Also, to receive the gold coin at a special event is the Ya Na Abukari II.

    Other Kingdoms

    Other Kingdoms and personalities in Africa, as well as other parts of the world, will also be presented with the gold coin at later dates.

    Diplomatic Corps

    Also scheduled is a meeting with the Diplomatic Corps to share with them Otumfuo’s upcoming peace initiatives and the purpose for the issuance of the gold coin.

    Achievements

    Key among Otumfuo’s achievements manifested in the Dagbon Peace Initiative where he led the Committee of Eminent Chiefs to broker peace between the two feuding royal gates after many years of a biting chieftaincy dispute.

    His Royal Majesty is also celebrated for calming tension in the buildup to the 2012 General Elections when he got the presidential candidates for the contesting political parties to meet in Kumasi to commit to peace by signing on to the famous Kumasi Declaration.

    Otumfuo is also credited for stepping in to amicably resolve the conflict between Techiman and four towns that owe allegiance to the Golden Stool.

    When the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) was plunged into crisis in October 2018, Otumfuo was at hand to douse the flames and restore normalcy to the institution.

    Within Asanteman, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has ensured that all chieftaincy disputes that disturbed the progress of Asanteman were settled peacefully.

    In recognition of his immense accomplishments in peacebuilding, the President of the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly invited him to address the UN General Assembly High-Level Forum on Culture of Peace during the 25th anniversary of the Adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on Culture of Peace on September 12, 2019.

    Key partners

    EON 3 Group organised the launch in collaboration with key partners made up of Manhyia Palace, KLG Group, Access Bank, Gold Coast Refinery, Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), and Coronation Insurance.

    Access Bank is the official banking partner of the Gold Coins, Gold Coast Refinery is the official minting company for the Commemorative Gold Coins, Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) is keeping custody of the Gold Coins, while Coronation Insurance is the official insurance company.

    Source: peacefmonline.com

  • Teachers hold the key to national development – Otumfuo

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei-Tutu II, has touted teachers as holders of the key to national development and indispensable in the country’s quest for quality education.

    “If education is the key then you, our teachers, hold the key to our development and prosperity,” he told members of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) at its Sixth Quadrennial National Delegates Conference in Kumasi.

    Delegates from all the 16 regions are attending the week-long conference, which is being held on the theme, “GNAT@90: Surviving as a Reliable and Vibrant Teacher Union in the 21st century.”

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is expected to address the Conference at the Great Hall of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology on Tuesday, January 4.

    It would be climaxed with the election of national officers to lead the Association for the next four years.

    “By your tutelage we are able to shape our communities and nations. There can be no science, technology and inventions without a teacher,” the Asantehene said.

    He said teachers were the primary source of human progress and deserved to be held in high esteem for the essential services they continued to provide.

    The implementation of the Free Senior High School Policy, he noted, was a landmark in Ghana’s education system.

    Much as the initiators deserved commendation for the bold step, the sacrifices and commitment of teachers towards its implementation could not be overemphasized, he said.

    Otumfuo Osei-Tutu challenged the teachers to use the opportunity to confront challenges facing their work and chart a new course with focus on creativity and innovation.

    “As we seek the best from our teachers, so must our teachers be made to feel truly valued,” he said.

    “It does get truly disconcerted when industrial relations break down and teachers abandon their classrooms and lecture halls, which obviously affects students.”

    He said he was pleased that officials from the Education as well as the Employment and Labour Relations ministries would participate in the Conference and called on all parties to focus on improved formula of negotiations and consultations to minimise industrial actions.

    The Reverend Prof. Emmanuel Adow Obeng, the President of the Presbyterian University College, who delivered the keynote address, eulogised GNAT for becoming a formidable teacher union after years of struggle.

    He said the Association had made significant impact in protecting the interest and welfare of the Ghanaian teacher and also contributed to the socio-economic development of Ghana.

    Source: GNA

  • Asantehene urges government to improve condition of service of teachers

    Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged the government to put measures in place to improve the conditions of service of teachers in the country.

    He said teachers were so important to the development of Ghana but their current remunerations did not reflect their value.

    “While we will always urge moderation in the face of the national economic realities, we will nonetheless, urge policy makers to ensure that the status of our teachers truly reflect the level of importance we attach to their place in society,” he said.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II who made these remarks at the 6th Quadrennial National Delegate conference for the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) in Kumasi also urged teachers to avoid using strike actions as means to get the government to improve their condition of service. 

    According to him these strike actions rather affect the education of children who were not to be blamed for their condition of service.

    He, therefore, urged the teachers to employ negotiations strategies with the government that do not involve strike actions.

    “Obviously, those who really suffer are the innocent children. I urge you all to focus your minds on the need for an improved way for negotiations and consultations which will minimize, if not eliminate, any recourse to industrial action and the harmful consequences on our children,” he said.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • I bless you to go and specialize but never forget Ghana Otumfuo to doctor who swept 15/21 awards

    Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has urged Dr Edward Akosah Danso who recently graduated from the University of Cape Coast School of Medical Science not to turn his back on Ghana by seeking greener pastures elsewhere.

    He appealed to him to ensure that he serves the country with all his might to help improve healthcare delivery while appealing to him to specialize.

    The Alumnus of Prempeh College and son of the former Director-General of Police CID, Welfare and Intelligence and Professional Standards Bureau, COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah became the poster boy of the 54th graduation ceremony of the university sweeping 15 out of 21 awards to set a new record at the School of Medicine.

    During a courtesy call on the King at Manhyia Palace, he advised him not to be swollen-headed by the awards but urged him to remain and be of service to Ghana and the world at large.

    “You should consider specializing as soon as it is practicable. Wherever you get to in the medical profession, you should come home and practice and serve this country…. Never forget his country and you should also not let the award make you swollen-headed but be of service to Ghana and the world at large,” he advised

    25-year-old Edward Akosah Danso thanked Otumfuo for the words of wisdom and assured him he will make the country proud.

    “I will not forget all the pieces of advice you have given me Nana and I promise to live by them,” he assured.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II also praised COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah for bringing him up and supporting him through his education.

    The award-winning Doctor in an earlier interview with MyNewsGh.com on his future is quoted to have said, “I want to eventually end up in academia as a Professor of Surgery. I am considering specializing in transplant surgery, a subspecialty of general surgery and establishing a transplant centre to serve the country”

    Source: mynewsgh.com

  • Otumfuo is right about taxes but we must resist bad taxes Manasseh

    Investigative journalist, Manasseh Azure Awuni agrees with a recent statement on taxation by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    The King of Ashanti kingdom made comments about the pain of paying taxes but the imperative of doing so in order to allow government fiscal space to operate.

    His views were made on December 12, 2021, at the Manhyia Palace during the launch of commemorative gold coins as part of the last Akwasidae of this year.

    Manasseh believed that the monarch is right but he also believes that government must avoid wastage of taxes collected and also avoid introducing what he called bad taxes.

    “Otumfuo is right about paying taxes. We taxpayers will also be right to tell Akufo-Addo to stop wasting the taxes paid. We should also resist bad taxes,” Manasseh stated in a Facebook post on December 14.

    What Asantehene said about taxation

    “Today, at least, the two main political parties have all been in government. If we are honest, we will agree that there is no perfect government and there will never be, as long as we have different points of view.

    “And, if we are honest, we will also agree that there are no people in this world that love paying taxes, and yet there is no other way conceived by the human mind by which government can raise the resources to meet our needs other than by raising taxes.

    “I do not know of any form of taxes that is less painful than others. So, alas, the government, by all means, would have to raise taxes to meet our needs and if we are good citizens, we will pay our taxes.”

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Otumfuo to launch gold coins

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is set to officially launch his Commemorative Gold Coins on December 12, 2021.

    According to reports, the Commemorative Gold Coins is a fitting memorial in honour of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for the significant role he played in restoring peace to the Dagbon kingdom in the Northern Region of Ghana after decades of protracted Chieftaincy crisis between members of the royal gates.

    Otumfuo was also acknowledged for his role as a restraining influence during almost every election cycle in Ghana.

    That influence, additionally, has ensured peaceful elections, culminating in seamless transitions in governments, especially when power changed hands between the two dominant political parties in Ghana.

    The face of the Gold Coin bears the image of Otumfuo, with the Adinkra symbols “Bi Nka Bi” on the left side and “Mpatapo,” on the right which symbolizes peace, harmony, and reconciliation.

    The reverse of the Gold Coin bears the image of the Golden Stool of Asanteman also known as “Sikadwa Kofi.” Legend has it that, the Sikadwa Kofi, which is the most prized possession of the Asante Kingdom and symbolizes the soul of the Asante people was commandeered from the Heavens by the High Priest, Okomfo Anokye and landed on the lap of the first Asante King, Otumfuo Osei Tutu I.

    The Gold Coin which will be 999% (24 karats) fine gold with a diameter of 37.00 mm and weighing 31.104 grams has been approved by the Bank of Ghana.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Call Oboy Siki to order – Ga Chief pleads with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

    Wulumo for Ga Asere Traditional Area, Abesse Division, Nuumo Kofi Okassa Diaka II has pleaded with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to call Oboy Siki to order.

    According to him, Oboy Siki’s continuous divisive and hateful comments about Gas can cause chaos in the country.

    Dada Santos popularly known as Oboy Siki in an interview with Ola Michael on Neat FM explained why he didn’t learn the Ga language. According to him, it was a conscious decision.

    “I don’t like the Ga language… I have stayed here for so many years, Kokomlemle..It’s been 20years,” he said on the radio station.

    However, reacting to this, Wulumo in an interview with Kofi Adoma Nwawani said, when such comments by the veteran actor, Oboy Siki is not condemned by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Akans, it breeds ethnocentric conflict in the country.

    “I want to plead with Otumfuo Osei Tutu, Nana, the Asantehene on behalf of the Ga state, especially the Ashantis must be called to order. They have to be advised,” he told Kofi Adoma in the interview monitored by GhanaWeb.

    He reiterated that Oboy Siki’s comment can be described as a “primitive comment.”

    “Oboy Siki never did well, so I am expecting my Akan community to condemn him… What Oboy Siki said is purely primitive. I have to mind my words, but this is a primitive talk…Language is a weapon. Gas have used language to fight the Akwamu people before.”

    Wulumo Okassa maintained that it is sometimes unfortunate for the media to avail their platforms to people like Oboy Siki to make these hate comments.

    “This is an unfortunate comment, I want to plead with the Despite Group of Companies. This is the second or third time that his platform was used to insult Gas. Yet Despite came to make his money in Accra. How can you be so ungrateful to Ga people?

    He added that the president has the Ga pride in him and disclosed why there is a perception that most Ga men don’t like working.

    He explained that it is something spiritual because, in the olden days, their ancestors believed in ‘Ablekuma’, where strangers who migrated to Accra to work, pay taxes to the indigenes of the land.

    Watch the video below:

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Coordinate for the right things to be done – Otumfuo charges Lands minister

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has urged Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, to take drastic measures in addressing the menace of illegal mining and other land-related issues in the country.

    He made this known to the minister when he paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace.

    This was part of a two-day working visit of the minister to the Ashanti region, citinewsroom.com reports.

    “If managed properly, we can mine without harming the environment. We can also do so by training the human resource to mine in an environmentally friendly manner.

    “With the acquisition of lands in forest zones, we should go through the procedure. To avert any clashes, your outfit should coordinate for the right thing to be done,” Asantehene advised.

    Samuel Abu Jinapor has so far made attempts at courting the support of regional ministers across the country in tackling the menace of small-scale mining, or what is popularly known as galamsey.

    During a meeting with regional ministers earlier this month, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources expressed his optimism at winning the galamsey fight stressing the need for his compatriots to play active parts in ensuring that dream is achieved.

    According to the report, Samuel Abu Jinapor has been vocal about his commitment to tackling the problem of illegal mining since his vetting at the Appointments Committee of Parliament for the ministry he currently heads.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners has pledged its support to the Minister, who is also the Member of Parliament for Damongo.

    They have also urged him to be resolute in the fight against illegal mining activities even as Samuel Abu Jinapor also gave assurances of the resolve of the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government to combat the mining illegality despite the challenges the fight has presented them with so far.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Otumfuo mourns Rawlings

    Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II paid his last respects to the departed ex-president, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings on Tuesday, January 26, 2021.

    He did this through a delegation from the palace to represent him.

    Led by the Omanhene of Kumawu Traditional Area and clad in black, together with the entourage in his royal palanquin, he was escorted into the auditorium with dancing and drumming.

    Amidst a unique display of culture, the King, represented by his spokespersons presented items including kente cloths, monies and customary drinks to the family in honour of the departed statesman.

    The Omanhene of the Kumawu Traditional Area, Barima Safo Tweneboah Kodua who represented the Asante King, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, whilst comforting the family in his speech recounted fond memories of the former President Rawlings, his unique relationship with the King and the support and love they showed for each other on several occasions.

    He expressed his condolence with the family and pledged his unflinching support for them during the period. He also advocated for peace during this period, considering it is one of the values the former President stood for.

    Speaking on behalf of the family, Dr. Zanetor Rawlings who received the items thanked the King and the entire Royal family for their show of support and love during their difficult times.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, wife cast their ballot

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has cast his ballot at Manhyia in the Ashanti Region.

    The Ashanti king exercised his franchise together with his wife Lady Julia Osei Tutu.

    Pictures from the scene available to GhanaWeb show the king and his wife as well as other chiefs observing the coronavirus protocols while they go through the electoral process.

    Already, a number of dignitaries have cast their ballots. They include President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo, Former President and NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama as well as his running mate Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.

    Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for the Asawase Constituency, Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed, has sparked controversy after he held the hand of a child said to be six years old to thumbprint the presidential and parliamentary ballot papers.

    Visuals from the Peace of God polling station at Aboabo in the Ashanti Region where the incumbent Member of Parliament went to cast his ballot show the legislator and the child believed to be his daughter clad in all-white apparel. Having gone through the process and received a ballot paper, he walked to the designated box for thumbprinting with the little girl and held her hand to thumbprint.

    He later took the ballot paper, folded it, and gave it back to the minor to drop in the ballot box.

    The two showed the victory sign which has now been adopted by the opposition party as the return of John Mahama is 2nd on the ballot paper. Already a section of the public is asking whether his action is within the remits of the law.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Im still waiting for the bus from Asantehene – Alhaji Grusah

    Bankroller of King Faisal Football Club (FC), Alhaji Karim Grusah, has said he is still waiting for the bus he appealed for from Asantehene Otumfuo Osei II.

    Alhaji Grusah was reacting to the donation of a bus to the team by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    The second gentleman of the land last week donated a brand new 39-seater bus to King Faisal.

    He commended the Vice President saying he has done well, and he hopes the Asantehene will add his so they will get two buses.

    “This shows that Manhyia must donate us a bus. Manhyia is huge, and, so, the bus we appealed for must come,” he added.

    Source: rainbowradioonline.com

  • What Otumfuo Osei Tutu II wrote in Rawlings’s book of condolence

    While the demise of former President Jerry John Rawlings is still a shock to many, people from all walks have expressed their condolences.

    The government on Monday opened the book of condolence to persons in higher authority to pen their messages to the departed former president at the Accra International Conference Centre.

    With statesmen, ambassadors, the general public granted the chance to eulogize the late president, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s words written in the book has gained some attention.

    According to an image available to GhanaWeb, the King of the Asante kingdom wrote, “Agyewodin, fare thee well, my president and brother.”

    See the image below:

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Why the needless tension every election year? Otumfuo asks politicians

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is at a loss as to why politicians continue to stoke up tension each election year when there are processes enshrined in the constitution of the country.

    He is of the view that these tensions by the political parties are needless and end up eroding the gains made by the country in its quest to achieve advance democracy.

    Speaking during a courtesy call on him by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr James Oppong-Boanuh, the Asantehene noted that there processes governing the conduct of elections which ought to be respected by all.

    To this end, he stated that parties that are not impressed with the process have the right to proceed to the courts where their grievances could be addressed and thereafter prepare for another polls.

    “When we vote and you win, we will give it to you. When you lose at least in another four years, there will be another elections. This is what Ghanaians have accepted. If a political party loses an election, its supporters are not supposed to bring chaos into the country.

    Otumfuo expressed confidence in the Police to deliver its mandate to protect the sanctity of the upcoming general elections, and also used the occasion to advise Police Officers to remain neutral in discharging their duties.

    “They should wait for their time to win, or if in so much doubt, they can take the matter to court for peaceful settlement”, he stressed.

    The IGP on his part said “I promise to maintain peace during the polls and I shall ensure it is done to that latter. I will use every means possible to protect Ghanaians.”

    Source: My News GH

  • Asantehene calls on chiefs to be independent arbiters

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has called on traditional leaders to uphold the chieftaincy institution by staying neutral in all partisan affairs.

    This comes after some chiefs openly declared support for presidential candidates of some political parties in the country.

    Ahead of the December 7, elections, Paramount Chief of Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin II and Omanhene of Mehame Traditional Area, Nana Owusu Kontoh II openly declared support for some candidates.

    At a durbar held in honour of President Akufo-Addo on the second day of his three-day tour of the Eastern Region, the Okyenhene noted that the President has demonstrated that he is, indeed, “a President for all Ghanaians”.

    He, therefore, urged Ghanaians to vote him in power to serve another four year term.

    Nana Owusu Kontoh II also at a durbar at Mehame in the Asutifi South Constituency of the Ahafo Region, expressed gratitude to former President John Dramani Mahama for ensuring development at Mehame and other communities in the Constituency.

    Chief of Dormaa also endorsed the former president during his visit to the Bono region.

    The Asantehene, however, has cautioned chiefs against such acts, insisting that chiefs conducting themselves in this manner undermines the Chieftaincy Institution.

    He noted that chiefs are seen as symbols of unity in various communities, therefore, must conduct themselves in a manner that will promote peace rather than undermining national unity.

    “When matters get out of hand, chiefs are the people who will be called upon to ensure calm.

    “But if we engage in political activities we will no be trusted as neutral, and this will be worrying.

    “We all have our political divide but our institution does not permit us to disclose our stance,” he said.

    Source: myjoyonline

  • Rail sector going to create jobs, improve transportation Otumfuo

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has said the development of railway sector will not only improve transportation system in the country but also create jobs and business opportunities.

    According to him, the impact of the railway sector will be greater when it is finished because “everywhere rail line passes, everything changes.”

    This, he made known when the Minister of Railway Development, Joe Ghartey, led a team from the contractor working on rail lines in Kumasi, David Walters Company Limited, to pay a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi after a sod-cutting ceremony for the Kumasi-Obuasi line project.

    He urged government to pursue its agenda of developing the industry to link up cities and towns while commending them for their effort taken to revive the rail sector.

    The visit was to thank Otumfuo for sending a representative to witness the sod-cutting ceremony at Kaase last Wednesday.

    It was also to seek the support of chiefs in the area against encroachment on demarcated areas for the railway project.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • 2020 elections: What Otumfuo told Akufo-Addo and Mahama when they called on him

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is undoubtedly one of the most respected figures in the country which makes his statements profound and impactful.

    It is for this reason that in every election year, politicians, particularly presidential candidates of the two leading parties call on him before they commence their campaign in the Ashanti Region where he rules as king.

    This year, both Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party and John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress have visited the king in separate meetings.

    On August 26, 2020, when John Mahama paid a courtesy call on Otumfuo, the Asantehene asked the former president to do an introspection on why he lost the 2016 elections.

    Otumfuo advised Mahama to explain to Ghanaians the mistakes of his government and how he intends to correct those mistakes if re-elected.

    “You have been a President before and you want to return as President. I have spoken to you a lot and I have said that if you want to come back, let Ghanaians know what went wrong yesterday. Also let Ghanaians know that the mistakes won’t be repeated”.

    When you lost the election, I said that Ghanaians voted against you out of disappointment and anger, Otumfuo added.

    “And when you were re-elected as flagbearer and you informed me, I asked you whether you have looked at your mistakes in the past and how you can convince Ghanaians how you will correct those mistakes”, the Asantehene said.

    President Akufo-Addo is the latest of the two flagbearers to visit the Otumfuo at his Manhyia Palace.

    Addressing Akufo-Addo and his entourage on Monday September 28, 2020, Otumfuo said that the achievements of the president in the last four years will speak for him.

    Otumfuo assured Akufo-Addo that Asanteman will remember what he has done for them.

    “Your good works in office will speak for you going forward into the election. We, in Asanteman, remember, we do not forget. Asanteman will, therefore, remember your good works on the election day. All I can offer you is prayers and blessings.”

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Correct your mistakes, clearly explain your vision to Ghanaians Otumfuo to Mahama

    Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has advised the flagbearer of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr John Mahama, to clearly explain to Ghanaians what he did in office as President and what he intends to do when given the nod again.

    The Asante monarch said President Akufo-Addo has been touring the country explaining to Ghanaians what he has done and why they should give him another term and, therefore, wants the former President to do the same.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II also urged Mr Mahama to explain well to Ghanaians what has been alleged he could not do when he was in office but knows he did.

    This, the Asantehene said, will help Ghanaians make a choice between him and the President in the upcoming general elections.

    The Asantehene made the comments when Mr Mahama introduced his running mate, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang to him at the Manhyia palace today, Wednesday, 26 August 2020.

    Otumfuo also reminded the former president to rectify some mistakes that made him lose the 2016 general elections “as he was angrily and hungrily voted out by Ghanaians.”

    He, therefore, called on the former President to correct those mistakes if given the nod again.

    Source: Class FM

  • You don’t have to visit me only when you are in government – Otumfuo to NDC delegation

    A delegation from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) led by former President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday visited the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi to introduce Professor Naana Jane Opoku Agyeman, running mate of the NDC for Election 2020 to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Asanteman.

    Welcoming them, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, minced no words in telling the former President and his delegation how they paid frequent visits to the Palace when they were in power but ceased after they were voted out of office.

    “Today I have seen all my grand children that I haven’t seen in a while,” the Asantehene said.

    “You have brought all of them here today to come and see me. But you don’t have to only visit me when you are in government. You also have to visit me when you are out of government.”

    After the running mate was introduced, the Asantehene advised the NDC flagbearer, former President Mahama to assess why he was voted out of office by Ghanaians and tell Ghanaians the lessons he has learnt.

    “Tell Ghanaians the wrongs of the past and how you will correct those wrongs,” the Asantehene told the former President.

    He also called for an issue-based campaign to enable Ghanaians make an informed decision come December 2020.

    Source: Graphic.com.gh

  • Tell Ghanaians the wrongs of the past and how you will correct them – Asantehene to Mahama

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has asked former President John Dramani Mahama to conduct a deep introspection on why he was voted out as President and tell Ghanaians what new he is bringing on board.

    Mr Mahama, who is seeking a comeback nearly four years after he was voted out of office, introduced his running mate, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyeman to the Asantehene and Asanteman earlier Wednesday at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

    Addressing the former President, the Asantehene said, he is reiterating his advice to former President Mahama that as he seeks a comeback, it is important for him to tell Ghanaians the mistakes of the past and how he has corrected those mistakes to warrant a second chance.

    You have been a President before and you want to return again as President. I have spoken to you a lot and I have said that if you want to come back, let Ghanaians know what went wrong yesterday. Also let Ghanaians know that the mistakes won’t be repeated, the Asantehene said in twi.

    When you lost the election, I said that Ghanaians voted against you out of disappointment and anger, Otumfuo added

    And when you were re-elected as flagbearer and you informed me, I asked you whether you have looked at your mistakes in the past and how you can convince Ghanaians how you will correct those mistakes, the Asantehene said.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu said that just as he former President Mahama wants to make a comback, so does the sitting President Nana Akufo-Addo also wants to be re-elected for four more years, hence his tour around the country to account for what he has done so far in the past three years.

    The sitting President, Nana Akufo-Addo wants to be re elected for another 4 years and he has been going round explaining to Ghanaians what he has done.

    You have just told me what you did when you were President, and what you want to do if you get another chance.

    What you have to do is to tell Ghanaians the wrongs of the past and how you will correct those wongs, Otumfuo said.

    Campaign of issues

    The Asantehene urged the two leading contenders to focus on campaign of issues to Ghanaians and leave the people to be the best judges.

    The current President is telling Ghanaians what he has done in the past three and half years. That they have done better than you and they should be given another term of office.

    Everybody should talk about what they have done and what they will do. What you did in the past and what you will do in the future should be told, and the Ghanaian people will be the best judges.

    The Asantehene called for a peaceful campaign and election process and adviced against acts of violence.

    “We want a peaceful election and nobody should initiate violence. Just make your points well and Ghanaians will be the best judges. It’s all about issues.”

    Source: Graphic.com.gh

  • PLAYBACK: Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang visits Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

    The running mate of the opposition National Democratic Congress Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang pays a visit to Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Asantehene petitioned over destruction of Pramso farmlands

    Some citizens of Pramso in the Bosomtwe District of the Ashanti, have petitioned the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, over the destruction of their farmlands.

    They are demanding justice for what they said was the wanton destruction of their food crops by the Messrs. Kofi Job Company Limited, who is constructing the Atonso-Agogo Kuntanase road, without the consent of the farmers and recourse to the law.

    “We want His Royal Majesty, the Asantehene, to intervene to stem further destruction of the food crops since they served as our only source of livelihood,” Mr Yaw Owusu, Chairman of the Pramso Concerned Youth Association, told the media.

    This was after the group had embarked on a peaceful demonstration at Pramso to register their displeasure at the development.

    Messrs Kofi Job is said to have cleared a large track of farmlands to extract laterite for the road project, which passes through the town.

    Mr Owusu said despite several appeals to the Chief of Pramso, Nana Gyampatua II, to come to their aid, “nothing concrete was being done to address the plight of the affected farmers.”

    He expressed worry that the continuous extraction of sand and sandstones at Pramso for construction purposes could also lead to land degradation, with the attendant negative consequences on the environment.

    The affected farmers, he said, would use all legal and peaceful means to fight for their right.

    Source: GNA

  • Otumfuo and wife Lady Julia register for new voters ID card

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, together with his wife, Lady Julia Osei Tutu, on Monday registered and obtained new voters identity cards in the ongoing mass voters registration exercise.

    They registered at the polling station located in forecourt of the Manhyia Palace.

    Led by his Chief of Staff, Mr Kofi Badu, Otumfuo was accompanied by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Mr Simon Osei Mensah, and the Minister of Education, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh.

    Also present was the Chief Executive of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), Mr Stephen Asamoah-Boateng.

    Registration

    It took Otumfuo and the wife barely 15 minuets to go through the registration process, and were immediately issued with their voter identification cards.

    As usual, Otumfuo and the wife were assisted to undertake the COVID-19 protocol of washing of hands with soap under running water, body temperature check before they were admitted to the registration area to go through the process.

    The process was under the supervision of Mr Benjamin Bano-Bio, the Ashanti Regional Director of EC and his deputy, Mrs Dina Osei Asibey Frimpong.

     

    Source: Graphic.com.gh 

  • ‘Make Kotoko stable and introduce professionalism’ – Otumfuo tells new Board

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Life Patron of Kumasi Asante Kotoko has tasked the new Board of Directors of the club to provide stability and professionalism in their administration to ensure the club regains its glory.

    The Life Patron ask asked the new board to equip the club with technology and skills appropriate for the modern development of the club.

    In a press statement from Manhyia Palace signed by Mr. Kofi Badu Chief of Staff, it said: “His Majesty Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, has constituted a new board of Directors for Asante Kotoko SC and charged it with an ambitious task to rebuild the Asante Kotoko brand not only for its performance on the sporting field but as a viable economic entity”.

    It said the appointment of three new Board members follows an inquiry into the operations of the club by a three-member committee which was chaired by Professor Lydia Nkansah.

    The Professor Lydia Nkansah led committee has also been tasked to advise on possible institutional representation as part of a proposal for institutional reforms.

    The statement also mentioned Asantehene’s gratitude to all members who agreed to lend their expertise and corporate clout to the Board.

    The three new members are Mr. Kofi Amoa-Abban, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ringworld Group, Mr. James Brown, CEO of Joshob Construction, and Mr. Martin Osei Kwaku Brobbey, Managing Director of Lexta Ghana Limited.

    This trio would join the Dr. Kwame Kyei-led board which includes Mr. Jude Arthur, Mr. Kwadwo Boateng, Mr. Kwasi Osei-Ofori, Alhaji Abu Lamin, Mr. Kwamina Mensah, Mr. Joseph Adu, Mrs. Evelyn Nsiah Asare and Baffour Kwame Kusi.

    Source: GNA

  • Asante Kotoko owner Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to fund US$ 30m stadium project – Report

    Reports in Kumasi say Manhyia Palace has secured a US$ 30 million fund to build a stadium for giants Asante Kotoko.

    Kwame Aboagye Mensah, Personal Assistant to the Chief of Staff, is quoted by Kumasi-based Oyerepa FM.

    ”Manhyia has plans to see infrastructural development at Asante Kotoko not only stadium but all-round facelift infrastructure wise,” Mensah said.

    Club owner and Life Patron Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is determined to improve infrastructure

    According to the plan, the club’s Adako Jachie training complex will be upgraded into an ultra-modern stadium with redesigned pitches.

    The facility will include a VIP stand, media stand, electronic scoreboard, and gym Center.

    If the project is completed, Kotoko will move from the Baba Yara Stadium which has been the home ground of all their titles.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Asante Kotoko owner Otumfuo Osei Tutu II celebrates birthday today

    Highly respected King of the Ashanti Region Otumfuo Osei Tutu II who is the life patron of Asante Kotoko is celebrating his birthday today.

    His Royal Majesty is celebrating his 70th birthday.

    Known in private life as Barimma Kwaku Duah before ascending the throne in 1999 to succeed the late Otumfuo Opoku Ware II.

    The 16th King has led the Asante Kingdom for the past 21 years.

    For his club, the King has not been pleased with recent activities and has set up a committee to investigate the club’s affairs.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

     

  • University Professor heads committee to ‘investigate’ Kwame Kyei’s tenure

    Asante Kotoko owner and Life Patron Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has appointed Professor Lydia Nkansah to chair a three-member committee to investigate the affairs of the club.

    The Dean of the Faculty of Law at the Kwame Nkrumah of Science and Technology will be assisted by Kofi Owusu, a Registrar at the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs and Lawrence Bruce Kyei, a legal practitioner.

    The four-member committee has four weeks to submit a report to Manhyia for consideration.

    Last week, the office of the Asantehene announced the Kyei’s tenure as Executive Chairman had ended and the businessman submitted a report for his stewardship.

    In the press statement signed by Chief of Staff Kofi Badu, the committee has been tasked to look into two main issues.

    First, to investigate all the circumstances surrounding Asante Kotoko Sporting Club transactions with Tunisian Club Esperance which resulted in the FIFA ruling and the subsequent transfer of another Asante Kotoko player to the club.

    And also, to investigate the failure of Asante Kotoko SC to meet its regulatory obligations to the Premier League licence.

    From this development, it obvious that Kyei has been given the heave-ho after three years of running the club.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Prof. Lydia Nkansah chairs 3-member committee to investigate the affairs of Asante Kotoko

    Asante Kotoko owner Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has appointed Professor Lydia Nkansah to chair a three-member committee to investigate the affairs of the club.

    The Dean of the Faculty of Law at the Kwame Nkrumah of Science and Technology will be assisted by Kofi Owusu and Lawrence Bruce Kyei.

    In today’s statement, Manhyia Palace confirmed that it has appointed Prof. Lydia Nkansah to conduct investigations into the affairs of the Porcupines.

    “His Majesty Otumfour Osei Tutu II, Asantehene has appointed Prof. Lydia Nkansah, Dean of the Faculty of Law, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to chair the three-member committee to investigate the affairs of the Asante Kotoko Sporting Club”, a statement signed by Kofi B

    Source: footballghana.com

  • Otumfuo sets up committee to investigate Kotoko judgement debt scandal

    Asante Kotoko owner and life patron Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has set up a committee to investigate the circumstances leading to the award of a gargantuan judgement debt against the club.

    The Porcupine Warriors have been saddled with a $240,000 FIFA fine for breaches in their contract with former Esperance striker Emmanuel Clottey.

    The judgment debt has sparked outrage and led to a massive confusion at the club.

    Accusations and counter-accusations have dominated inches in the Ghanaian media between past and present management members of the club.

    However, the club’s owner Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has set up a committee to investigate the matter and other troubling issues confronting the club.

    They have four weeks to submit its report to the King of the Ashanti kingdom.

    “Investigate all the circumstances surrounding Asante Kotoko Sporting Club transactions with Tunisian Club Esperance which resulted in the FIFA ruling and the subsequent transfer of another Asante Kotoko player to the club.”

    “To investigate the failure of Asante Kotoko SC to meet its regulatory obligations to the Premier League licence.”

    The tenure of the club’s Executive chairman Kwame Kyei has come to an end, Manhyia Palace has reported.

    Source: GHANAsoccernet.com