Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has urged chiefs to show leadership by working hard with passion to bring development to their communities.

That, he said, was what “gives them legitimacy to their rule,” adding that they should put the collective good ahead of their individual comfort.

He asked them to overcome greed and arrogance to help carry the people along with them.

The Asantehene made the call at a non-denominational church service organised at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace as part of activities marking the 15th anniversary celebration of his enthronement as the 16th Asante King.

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor was among high profile political, traditional and religious leaders who were present to grace the occasion.

 “Rekindling the spirit of creativity, innovation and enterprise through traditional leadership” is the theme for the anniversary, which would be climaxed with a durbar on May 11 at the Baba Yara Stadium.

The Asantehene asked Ghanaians to “pray to God to bless chiefs with the gift of wisdom, humility and a discerning spirit to do what is right and just.”

He expressed gratitude to God for giving him strength, protection and the guidance to spearhead projects in health and education.

Most Reverend Professor Emmanuel Asante, the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, Ghana, said the Asantehene should have every reason to celebrate the success of his 15 years on the Golden Stool.

He said the Asantehene had shown quality leadership and brought development to the people, citing education and health programmes he had rolled out, as well as his unique role as a peace broker.

Intercessory prayers were said for the Asantehene and his family, the nation and its leadership, and the church.   

Otumfuo Osei Tutu later opened a photo exhibition of his reign mounted at the Manhyia Palace.