Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene of the Ashanti Kingdom, has issued a stern warning to chiefs within his jurisdiction.
He cautions that they risk losing their stools if found complicit in issues related to land guards.
The Asantehene’s decisive stance follows an alarming rise in the activities of land guards across Asanteman, which he described as unprecedented and intolerable to the people of the Ashanti region. The announcement comes in the wake of heightened concerns and efforts by the Ashanti Regional Security Council to address land disputes in Kumasi and surrounding areas.
During the Asanteman Council meeting on Thursday, July 4, convened after the Silver Jubilee celebrations at Manhyia Palace, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II revealed the establishment of a security agency committee. This committee is mandated to investigate and tackle the unlawful activities of land guards, aiming to restore peace and order in the region.
The Asantehene emphasized, “A practice that didn’t have any place in Asanteman has started gaining roots, land guards. The police and the military will tell me where the practices are taking place, and all those implicated will lose their stools. Let’s wait for the report to come out.”
Expressing bewilderment at using land guards by individuals who have legally acquired land through purchase or inheritance, Otumfuo questioned the rationale behind such actions.
He stressed the importance of peaceful and lawful means in resolving land disputes, emphasizing that land is immovable and should not be subject to such illicit practices.
Moreover, Otumfuo reaffirmed his commitment to combatting illegal mining activities within his jurisdiction.
He warned, “I will investigate any chief implicated in any illegal mining report that comes before me henceforth and destool you. We have some cases pending before us that must be fast-tracked.”
The Asantehene’s declarations underscore his determination to uphold the rule of law, protect the sanctity of land ownership, and preserve environmental preservation in Asanteman.
