The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has destooled Nana Kusi Baaye II, the chief of Ohwim in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, following multiple allegations of misconduct and violations of traditional laws.
The chief, who ruled for 16 years, was removed from his position after being found guilty of several offenses, including the desecration of the Great Oath, extortion, illegal sale of lands, and illegal mining.
His actions were exposed during a Kumasi Traditional Council meeting on Monday, February 24, 2025.
During the proceedings, the Ohwimhene was accused of falsely testifying in a chieftaincy dispute.
According to the issues, despite being aware of the rightful owners of the stool land, he allegedly demanded ¢6,000 to testify in favour of the owners but later took money from the opposing party and testified on their behalf.
His dishonesty was uncovered by the Asantehene, proving that he had violated his oath of office and the sacred witness vow associated with the Great Oath.
Further allegations were made by his sister, Akosua Nyame, who recounted how Nana Kusi Baaye II dismissed the authority of the Great Oath after she invoked it three times to prevent him from illegally selling cemetery lands meant for royals and chiefs.
She stated that he contemptuously remarked, “If the Great Oath has legs, let it come and arrest me.”
A former Biemso Dikro also testified that the destooled chief unlawfully seized land under the pretense that it had been taken by the Asantehene for a solar project. It was later discovered that he was engaging in illegal mining on the land, which has since been destroyed.
Additionally, allegations were made against him for obstructing the burial of Asikasuhene, who passed away five years ago. It was revealed that Ohwimhene burned the belongings of Asikasuhene, leading to his prolonged stay in the mortuary. He also allegedly caused the wrongful arrest of several community leaders, six of whom have since died.
Following these revelations, the Asantehene ordered the necessary traditional rites to be performed to formalize the chief’s removal.
Sending a strong message, the Asantehene warned that any chief who takes the Great Oath and violates it will face similar consequences.
“This is not only about him but to you all, anybody that takes the great oath and goes against it will equally face consequences…from today you are no longer chief for Owhin,” Otumfuo said.
AM/KA
You can also watch Godfred Dame’s full speech on legal case withdrawals below: