The Abuontemhene of Kumasi Traditional Council, Nana Kwaku Duah III, prior to his destoolment, pleaded with the Otumfuo to be pardoned , citing dizziness as basis for his plea for mercy.
The chief was summoned before the Asantehene and other members of the Kumasi Traditional Council over allegations of disregard for Otumfuo’s directives, and engaging in the sale of lands, including one that was under investigation and subject to a trespassing warning by the Asantehene.
He was also accused of using Otumfuo’s name to gain approval for his activities on the land in question, despite the ongoing investigation, and of venturing into territory belonging to others and facilitating land sales without proper authorization.
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Nana Kwaku III pleads with Otumfuo
In response to the allegations, Nana Kwaku Duah III denied the specific accusation of using Otumfuo’s name as leverage for his actions. However, he acknowledged his presence on the land but asserted that he allowed others to work on it with his permission.
“With all due respect, Nana, I am not feeling well, I’m feeling dizzy now…but I am pleading because, to be honest, and to speak the truth, I have never stood anywhere before to claim that his Lordship has ruled over a matter in my favour, that is the exact truth I have never claimed that before, what I said to Nana Acheamfour is that, I permitted them to work on the land,” he said.
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During the proceedings, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II gave the subchiefs an opportunity to present their evidence and testimonies against Nana Kwaku Duah III. After listening to both sides, Otumfuo announced his decision to de-stool Nana Kwaku Duah III as the Abuontemhene of Kumasi Traditional Council.
Otumfuo said he would not tolerate any chief who disrespects his authority and engages in illegal activities that tarnish the image of the Ashanti Kingdom. He warned other chiefs to learn from Nana Kwaku Duah III’s fate and abide by the rules and regulations of the traditional council.