The Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, has firmly rejected the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu’s attempt to install a paramount chief at Fiapre, a town in Ghana’s Sunyani West Municipality. In a passionate address to his community, Nana Agyeman Badu II asserted that the Asantehene lacks the jurisdiction to make such appointments on lands outside his traditional realm.
According to Nana Agyeman Badu II, the Asantehene, recognized as a paramount chief by Ghana’s constitution, does not possess the authority to install another paramount chief in Fiapre, which falls under the control of the paramount chief of Odumase. He emphasized that the actions of Otumfuo Osei Tutu are both disrespectful and contrary to the established traditions of Fiapre.
“There is no higher authority than a paramount chief. Otumfuo Osei Tutu, being a paramount chief himself, cannot impose his will on another paramount chief,” Nana Agyeman Badu II declared. “As long as I hold my position as president of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, Otumfuo cannot install a paramount chief at Fiapre. Even if the court rules otherwise, I will not comply, and I am prepared to face any consequences.”
The Dormaahene further criticized the Asantehene’s interference, arguing that it disregards the traditional authority and sovereignty of the Bono chieftaincy structures. He called for unity and respect among the chieftaincy institutions, warning that such actions could exacerbate divisions among the chiefs in the Bono Region.
“The Fiaprehene owes allegiance to the paramount chief of Odumase, who has rightful authority over Fiapre. We must seek reconciliation with our ancestors for any such transgressions,” Nana Agyeman Badu II asserted.
In a final plea, Nana Agyeman Badu II urged Otumfuo Osei Tutu to reconsider his actions, stressing that his current approach is detrimental to harmony among the traditional leaders in the Bono Region. The Dormaahene’s firm stance underscores the ongoing tension and the complexities of traditional authority in Ghana.
