Asantehene Blames Divisions and Linguists for Slow Resolution of Chieftaincy Disputes

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has faulted the Divisions of the Kumasi Traditional Council and their Linguists for numerous delayed chieftaincy disputes within Asanteman.

He observes that most of these cases have not been laid before him for resolution as they are still with the Divisions.

“Linguists and Divisions are responsible for delayed cases. Whenever I am exiting this place after sittings, people come to me to complain they have cases here.Meanwhile, I am not aware of the cases.

“Your cases are not before me, they are with the Divisions and Linguists. It is their responsibility to process the cases and then bring them before me for resolution,” he said during the Kumasi Traditional Council meeting on August 15, 2024.

He recognizes that some of the chiefs take undue advantage of the vulnerability of the feuding factions, extorting money from them and busing them to the Palace for each sitting, even though their cases have not advanced before him.

An observation by Otumfuo also indicated that some chiefs embroiled in disputes sideline their divisions and come directly to him with their cases – an action he is unwilling to countenance henceforth.

Per laid down procedures, he noted that all cases must go to the requisite Division for processing and scheduling in order to be brought before him.

He further warned members of the vaious Divisions who exhibit authoritarianism and rubbish cases on their own discretion without fair hearing to desist from such practices.

His Majesty did not mince words when he stated all those found culpable in such acts will have to answer to him.

“They often take money. This is not patriotism and it’s cheating. Do the right thing for peace to reign. The subjects are trusting us to be honest and give due judgement, if you break that trust, who will they have to seek refuge with.”