Kofi Barnie To Be Enstooled Mehamehene

The Occupant of the Golden Stool, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has directed that the selected candidate for the Mehame Stool in the Ahafo Region, Kofi Barnie, be enstooled immediately.

After a standoff between the Obaapanin and the Royal Family over who would succeed Nana Owusu Konto, the Asantehene intervened.

The two sides held onto their choices, refusing to make compromises for peace’s sake.

While the Obaapanin sought to enstool her brother, one Yeboah, the royal house and the Family head opted for Kofi Barnie.

It was the case of the Obaapanin that she could not rule the town together with Barnie as he was giving her the cold shoulder.

“He has refused to speak to me,” she told the council.

Tradition
In an address, Otumfuo noted that traditionally, the female leader has the responsibility of selecting a candidate; however, he noted that in the instance where the Family Head and the whole royal family opposed, there was the need for compromise.

“Traditionally, the Obaapanin has the right to choose. That hasn’t changed but then her choice should be seconded by the Abusuapanin. Just as we can’t outrightly reject the candidate of the Queen, we can’t turn a blind eye to the opposition from the family.”

Otumfuo therefore urged the parties to make peace reign through compromise.

“Peace must reign. I want them to unite and take care of the town for me. With what is going on now, the process hasn’t gotten to the stool elders.”

Selection
Patiently observing the entrenched stance of both sides, the Asantehene called forward the royal gates and directed them to make their choice.

Three names were announced by the women: Kofi Yeboah, Addai Mununkum and Kofi Barnie.

Three of the four women went out for Barnie while only one went in for Addai.

The King then called forward the Stool Elders of Mehame to make their choice. All but one selected Barnie.

Otumfuo then directed that the needed rites be performed for his enstoolment.

“Go and enstool him and bring him back to take his oath.”

Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini