In a significant development within Ghana’s political sphere, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has been ordered to appear before the Kumasi Traditional Council at the Manhyia Palace. This summons, scheduled for Monday, January 29, 2024, comes in the wake of alleged derogatory remarks made by Chairman Wontumi about the Asantehene approximately two weeks ago.
Accompanying Chairman Wontumi will be Lawyer Maurice Ampaw, who is also alleged to have made similar disparaging comments on the radio. The management of the radio station, where these remarks were broadcasted, has also been summoned by the Traditional Council.
The situation took a turn when Chairman Wontumi, initially expected to appear before the council on January 22, 2024, failed to show up, citing health reasons. In his stead, a delegation from the NPP, led by General Secretary Justin Kodua and Organizer Henry Nana Boakye, visited the Manhyia Palace. The Bantamahene, Baffour Owusu Amankwatia (VI), presided over the meeting in the Asantehene’s absence, with all factions of the Kumasi Traditional Council in attendance.
During the meeting, the NPP General Secretary explained Wontumi’s absence due to illness and requested a two-week recovery period. However, this plea met with strong opposition from the faction leaders of the traditional council, especially due to the lack of a medical report to substantiate Wontumi’s health claims. The council also brought in Lawyer Maurice Ampaw for his alleged support of Wontumi’s statements.
In the council’s final remarks, the Bantamahene ordered that Wontumi, along with Maurice Ampaw and the management of Wontumi Radio, must appear before the council the following Monday. In response, the NPP General Secretary expressed respect for the Golden Stool, distancing the party from Maurice Ampaw’s invitation.
This development indicates the significant role traditional councils play in maintaining respect and decorum in Ghanaian society, especially regarding comments about revered figures like the Asantehene. The Traditional Council’s summoning of a prominent political figure like Chairman Wontumi underscores the influence and authority these councils wield in addressing matters of public interest and ethical conduct.
Chairman Wontumi’s situation sheds light on the intersection of traditional authority and modern political discourse in Ghana. The respect for traditional institutions and leaders remains a cornerstone of Ghanaian society, and this incident serves as a reminder of the boundaries of political rhetoric and the consequences of crossing them.
This event is pivotal in illustrating how traditional values and contemporary politics intertwine in Ghana, with traditional leaders actively engaging in safeguarding the respect and integrity of their positions and cultural heritage. The outcome of the upcoming meeting at the Manhyia Palace will be closely watched, as it will set a precedent for political discourse and the role of traditional authorities in moderating it.
In conclusion, the summons of Chairman Wontumi by the Kumasi Traditional Council represents a critical moment in Ghana’s political narrative, highlighting the enduring influence of traditional institutions in public affairs. It also serves as a cautionary tale for political figures about the importance of respectful discourse, especially when referring to respected cultural leaders. As Ghana continues to navigate its path as a democratic nation, the relationship between traditional authority and political expression remains a delicate balance, essential for the nation’s social harmony and cultural integrity.
