The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President and presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), to take decisive steps to review the Chieftaincy Act if he wins the December 2024 elections. This appeal was made during Dr. Bawumia’s visit to the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, part of his three-day campaign tour in the Ashanti Region.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized the need for a revised Chieftaincy Act to enable chiefs to effectively collaborate with the government and contribute actively to national development. He underscored the critical role of traditional leaders, particularly in combating illegal mining, which is causing significant damage to river bodies, forests, land, and other natural resources.
The Asantehene also highlighted the importance of fulfilling previous promises to improve allowances for traditional councils and urged Dr. Bawumia to continue ongoing development projects while initiating new ones to ensure sustainable growth for the country.
Encouraging Dr. Bawumia to clearly articulate his vision to the electorate, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II remarked, “I have known you for a long time, and political power has not changed you. You remain humble. Continue to treat Ghanaians with respect and humility, and clearly explain what you intend to do for them. I know you can do the job if Ghanaians vote for you.”
The Asantehene acknowledged the significant achievements of the current government under President Akufo-Addo and expressed confidence in Dr. Bawumia’s ability to deliver on his promises. He noted, “President Akufo-Addo saw great potential in you, which is why he chose you as his Vice President. The government has achieved a lot, and I trust that you will deliver. Just propagate your messages to Ghanaians.”
During his visit, Dr. Bawumia attended the Youth Connect event in the Ashanti Region, where he highlighted his accomplishments and claimed to have outperformed all other Vice Presidents in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
The call from the Asantehene comes at a critical time as the December 2024 elections approach, placing additional emphasis on the importance of traditional leadership in national governance and development.
