The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi, has been cleared of any wrongdoing by the Asanteman Traditional Council.
The council summoned Chairman Wontumi after he was accused of making derogatory comments against the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. However, Chairman Wontumi was cleared of the allegations after his accuser, Kokosohene, was advised not to bring political issues to the Manhyia Palace.
Earlier, it was reported that the Kumasi Traditional Council would decide on the case, and a crucial meeting was held to discuss the matter.
The purpose of the meeting was to determine the next steps regarding the Wontumi case. It is worth noting that although Chairman Wontumi claimed to be sick and unable to attend the meeting, he was seen at the Bantama constituency during the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primaries on January 27, 2024.
Days ago, the Manhyia Palace issued a summons to Chairman Wontumi, whose real name is Bernard Antwi Bosiako, over allegations of disrespecting the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Reports indicate that Wontumi’s actions during the NPP’s vetting of parliamentary aspirants last week prompted the summons. It is alleged that Wontumi openly challenged the authority of the Asantehene, stating that he would confront Otumfuo if they disagreed on an issue.
In a public statement, Wontumi reportedly asserted, “I have built my own kingdom, I have my own police and military; and I will speak my mind to Otumfuo if I disagree on an issue with him.”
Witnesses present at the vetting venue, including Henry Nana Boakye who chaired the panel, were reportedly surprised by Wontumi’s display of power and arrogance.
Nana Kwaku Duah, the Kokosohene, who was also in attendance, expressed his displeasure at Wontumi’s comments, urging him to retract his words and apologize. Kokosohene, visibly angered by Wontumi’s unprovoked attack on Otumfuo, emphasized the unacceptability of such disrespectful behaviour.
The incident sparked outrage at the Manhyia Palace, the traditional seat of the Asantehene, leading to the summons of Wontumi before the Council. The NPP’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, has been tasked with facilitating Wontumi’s appearance to address the alleged act of disrespect towards Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
