The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has cautioned government appointees against interfering in chieftaincy disputes, particularly the Sampa conflict, warning that political power is temporary and must not be used to undermine traditional authority.
Speaking at a meeting of the Asanteman Council on Monday, April 20, 2026, Otumfuo expressed concern about what he described as increasing political involvement in traditional governance matters, saying the situation in Sampa was particularly worrying.
He stressed that traditional institutions must be respected, especially in cases where disputes have already been settled through due process and recognised by the appropriate authorities.
The Asantehene mentioned Interior Minister Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, Minister for Chieftaincy and Local Government Ahmed Ibrahim, Bono Regional Minister Joseph Addae Akwaboa, and the regional police commander, saying their conduct had contributed to the ongoing uncertainty in the Sampa Traditional Area.
“The Sampa chieftaincy issue has already been settled. The chief has taken the oath, the matter has gone to court and he has been registered by the National House of Chiefs,” he said.
He questioned why the recognised chief is unable to freely access Sampa, alleging that concerns had been raised about his security, while another faction continues to control the town with alleged support from some authorities.
Otumfuo also raised concerns about what he described as selective law enforcement, claiming that in some instances one faction had been arrested while the other was left untouched.
“In Sampa, one faction was arrested while the other was left untouched… If you do this, is it right?” he asked.
He further expressed worry over what he described as growing disregard for court rulings in Sampa and other areas such as Nkyeraa, Amantim, and parts of Asante Akyem, where rival claimants continue to assert authority despite legal decisions.
Otumfuo reminded government officials that political power is temporary and urged them to act with restraint, adding that time eventually vindicates rightful authority.
“I want to tell these ministers that time changes. Today, you have power, so you use it anyhow… But the Sampa chief will not die, and the town belongs to him. He will definitely assume his rightful place,” he said.
The comments come after violent clashes on March 14, 2026, in the Bono Region, which left one person dead and several others injured in renewed tensions linked to the long-standing chieftaincy dispute.
The Sampa conflict, which has lasted nearly two decades, went through arbitration under the Asantehene, culminating in the gazetting of Nana Samgba Gyaflaa II as the recognised Paramount Chief.
Despite this, a rival faction continues to challenge the ruling, resulting in recurring tensions and occasional violence in the area.
Traditional leaders have repeatedly called for strict enforcement of court rulings and stronger security measures to ensure peace and stability in Sampa.