The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu the Second, has in recent times destooled at least five chiefs for various offenses, including multiple sale of lands, breach of traditional rules, and engagement in illegal mining activities.

According to the Cultural Historian at the Manhyia Palace, Osei Sarfo Kantanka, the unpleasant actions of these sub-chiefs are sufficient enough for their destoolment.

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He anticipates more of such punishment especially in relation to chiefs involved in illegal mining activities.

Osei Sarfo Kantanka insists this punitive measure is to signal to chiefs not to go against their oath to the Asantehene or engage in practices deemed inimical to the development of their communities.

The cultural historian at the Manhyia Palace says the Asantehene has in recent times established laws prohibiting chiefs from engaging in illegal mining activities and the sale of lands to multiple people, but some sub-chiefs continue to disregard these new laws.

“The destoolment is not as if Asantehene gets up and just destools chiefs. Not long ago, the Asantehene directed that chiefs should stay away from galamsey, but these chiefs do not heed the laws leading to their destoolment,” he said.

Sarfo Kantanka says the Asantehene will not shield chiefs engaged in any act that goes contrary to the established rules and regulations of the Manhyia Palace.

Read more: Asantehene destools second chief in less than a week

“When there is an instance that chiefs try to turn their back against their own states, then it requires their destoolment. When that happens, nothing can save them," he added.

Meanwhile, the Asantehene is expected to hold a public hearing on chiefs involved in some detrimental practices in a few days time.

“It is going to be part of us from today. It has come to stay so we should expect more from the Asantehene,” Sarfo Kantanka indicated.