Protesters in Offinso, Ashanti Region Urge Ashanti Kingdom’s Leader to Accept Dr. K. K. Sarpong as New Chief
A recent protest in Offinso aimed to persuade Nana Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the leader of the Ashanti Kingdom, to endorse the nomination of Dr. K. K. Sarpong as the new chief of the area. Nana Ama Serwaa Nyarko, the Queen mother of Offinso, and some elders had previously proposed Dr. Sarpong for the position, but Otumfuo had rejected the nomination, citing concerns about tradition.
Despite the leader’s reservations, some residents of the town held a different perspective and took to the streets in protest, advocating for the acceptance and enstoolment of Dr. Sarpong. Wearing red and black attire, along with headbands and wristbands, the protesters displayed placards with messages such as “No KK, No Chief,” “We need someone who can develop Offinso,” and “Everyone has a dream!!!” Others carried signs reading, “Offinsoman has accepted KK Sarpong already,” “Offinso existed before Ashanti,” and “There is no curse on Anyirem regal royal,” among others.
Priningonlinehas not confirmed whether the protesters presented a formal petition regarding their concerns. Otumfuo’s Caution to Offinsohemaa
Nana Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized his firm stance against any actions by the queen and the elders that would undermine Asanteman’s traditions in the election and selection of chiefs. He warned against unauthorized land sales and expressed the need for the Offinsohene’s approval in such matters.
Otumfuo was also aware of alleged plans to install a new chief in his absence, and he cautioned Offinsohemaa and others involved, stating that he would not allow them to jeopardize Offinso’s well-being.
The Quest for a New Offinsohene
The passing of Nana Wiafe Akenten III, the late Paramount Chief of Offinso, left a leadership vacuum, resulting in a legal dispute over his successor. Dr. K. K. Sarpong, a former CEO of the Ghana National Petroleum Company (GNPC), was nominated by the Queen Mother of Offinso with the support of certain elders. However, Otumfuo objected, stating that the nomination didn’t align with historical and traditional norms.
Otumfuo warned Nana Ama Serwaa Nyarko and the elders of Offinso to adhere to the appropriate procedures for selecting a new chief, or their candidate might face permanent rejection.
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