In recent times, the status of the Asantehene , Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, as a traditional ruler in Ghana has been a subject of public debate. While some argue in favor of Asanteman having a king who governs the Ashanti Kingdom, others contend that there is no kingdom and, consequently, no king in Ghana, citing the Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759).
Section 58 of the Chieftaincy Act outlines the categories of chiefs in Ghana, including the Asantehene and Paramount Chiefs. Those disputing the kingdom status often refer to the regional and national houses of chiefs as the authorities overseeing traditional areas, emphasizing the absence of the term “kingdom.”
However, the Asantehene addressed this debate during the 57th Congregation of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) on Friday, November 24, 2024. In a clear and unequivocal statement, he referred to the territory under his authority as a kingdom while offering advice to the government on addressing illegal small-scale mining (galamsey).
In his address, the Asantehene stated, “Not so long ago, we all heard of actions I took against some chiefs in my kingdom who were either covertly or overtly involved in galamsey activities… I urge the government to take reciprocal actions in the fight against galamsey.”
This declaration by the Asantehene seems to settle the kingship and kingdom debate, clarifying the nature of his rule. The definition of a kingdom, as adopted by the National Geographic Society, reinforces the Asantehene’s characterization, stating that a kingdom is a territory ruled by a king or queen who makes decisions, often inheriting their position by birth or marriage.
With this statement, the Asantehene has provided a definitive perspective on the matter, affirming the existence of the Ashanti Kingdom and his role as its traditional ruler.
BOOKMARK GHANAEDUCATION.ORG FOR MORE!