Otumfuo Affirms Backing for Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally

The Monarch of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has reaffirmed the Ghana Diocese’s backing for the Anglican Communion’s first female Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally.

This was during a courtesy visit to the Manhyia Palace on July 29, 2026, by the Archbishop in the company of her spouse, Eamonn Mullally, and the Primate of West Africa, Archbishop Dr Cyril Kobina Ben-Smith.

Referencing objections to her selection, His Majesty stated that the Church must remain united in all its directions.

“I know there were one or two issues when you were appointed. I know some areas in Africa also raised concerns, but the world is advancing, and therefore we all have to appreciate that whatever it is, where the direction of the church goes is where we all go. If we want to believe in the church and the faith, that is what it is,” he said.

Solutions
Acknowledging the challenges currently confronting the Communion, Otumfuo outlined prayer, honesty, and faithfulness from leadership as the sure solution.

His Majesty further expressed his expectation for growth and stability within the Communion.

“The old world is in a confused state now. It is only prayer and also being honest and faithful to each other that can help. We pray that in your tenure, the Anglican Church will grow… Your taking up this office gives us the assurance that you will steer the ship to make it more stable and calm the waters,” he added.

Ties
Welcoming the ceremonial head of the Anglican Communion worldwide, the Asantehene chronicled the conversion of Asante Royals and their adoption of Anglicanism, tracing it to the exile of Prempeh I, the 13th King of the Kingdom, to the Seychelles Islands.

Speaking on that, Otumfuo said Prempeh I returned as a Christian and converted all members of the Royal House to the Anglican faith.

His Majesty noted that the Church was dear to his heart.

“We have set up a small chapel here where he comes and conducts service for me most of the time. That is to affirm how deeply we are rooted in the church. Your visit is an assurance that the link between us is firmly confirmed, and we assure you that my church is doing well,” he said.

Shared Respect
For her part, the Archbishop described her visit to the Manhyia Palace as a privilege while expressing her deepest respect for the Asante Kingdom.

“I have found the Anglican Church here to be wide in hospitality and deep in faith, and active in working in the community… We may face many challenges across the world and in Ghana. As we work in partnership with the Asante people, it is so important to the Anglican Church that we work together, respecting each other and recognising that each of us is made in the image of God with deep value and deep love,” she said.

She prayed for the King, asking that God continue to bless His Majesty and his kingship.

“May the peace of God be on you and His blessings surround you, now and forevermore.”

Dame Mullally is the third Archbishop of Canterbury to visit the Manhyia Palace.

The delegation from Canterbury also included the Rev. Canon Margaret Cave, Claire Dowding, Sophia Kane, the Rev. Canon Samuel Wainaina, Christopher Cox, Pete Richardson, and others.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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