I Didn’t Sanction Arrest of Kwahu Queen- Eastern Regional Minister Clarifies

The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has denied sanctioning the arrest of the Queen of Kwahu Traditional Area, Nana Adwo Gyafua III.

In a statement, she clarified that she took responsibility for the incident and apologised for the actions of the police during a courtesy visit by a delegation of Chiefs from the traditional council.

She explained that she took responsibility for wrongdoings because she heads the Regional Coordinating Council and is “in charge of those who were supposed to have acted better.”

“In my submission, I also apologised to the chiefs for the conduct of the police personnel who were involved in the unfortunate incident and accepted responsibility not because I sanctioned the arrest of the Kwahu-Hema but because I am the Regional Minister and Head of the Regional Security Council. Never in my submissions did I categorically say that I ordered the arrest of Obahemaa,” she explained.

According to her, the Regional Security Council’s interest is to ensure peace and security, adding that it does not associate with any of the disputing parties.

“I therefore call on everyone to disregard the unfortunate reportage that is aimed at tarnishing my reputation and that of the Regional Security Council. I reaffirm my commitment to the oath I swore to serve my country and the Eastern Region, God be our helper.”

The Queen was taken away from her home on the dawn of November 17, 2025, by armed men reportedly dressed in police uniforms and claiming to be officers from National Security.

Following the circulation of the news, the Ghana Police Service said a directive had been given for her immediate release while an investigation commenced into the circumstances surrounding her arrest.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/