A month ago
In a decisive move against corruption and environmental
degradation, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has stripped the Gyasehene
of Sabronum, Nana Gyau Baffour Atuonin, along with two other high-ranking
chiefs, of their titles and responsibilities. This stern action comes in
response to their involvement in illegal mining activities that have been
wreaking havoc on the region's farmlands and water bodies.
The Asantehene's decision follows mounting agitation from
local youth and residents who have voiced their grievances about the
destruction caused by unauthorized mining operations in the Sabronum area.
Their concerns were formalized in a petition presented to the Asanteman
Traditional Council, prompting a thorough investigation into the matter.
On Monday, the Asantehene convened a meeting at the Manhyia
Palace, summoning the implicated chiefs—Gyasehene Nana Gyau Baffour Atuonin,
Akyeamehene Nana Osei Kwadwo, and Baamuhene Nana Tabiri Gyansah. The gathering
was convened to address their involvement in the illegal mining activities that
have severely impacted the local environment and agricultural productivity.
The decision to destool the chiefs was based on a
comprehensive report from the National Bureau of Investigation, which was
submitted to the Asantehene following his directive for an inquiry into the
illegal mining operations in Sabronum. The report highlighted the severe
environmental damage and the chiefs' complicity in these activities.
In a stern warning, the Asantehene threatened to pursue
legal action against the chiefs if they persisted in their illegal mining
endeavors. This ultimatum underscores his commitment to upholding traditional
authority and protecting the region's natural resources from exploitation.
The controversy surrounding the chiefs reached a boiling
point last week when the youth of Sabronum expressed their frustration over the
chiefs' failure to address the illegal mining issue during a council meeting.
Their lack of response further fueled public dissatisfaction and led to the
formal petition for their removal.
With the chiefs now removed from their positions, a new
leader has been nominated and selected to oversee the affairs of the Sabronum
community. This leadership change aims to restore order and focus on the
sustainable management of local resources.
The Asantehene’s decisive action highlights his ongoing
efforts to tackle illegal mining and enforce ethical standards among
traditional rulers within the Asante Kingdom. By addressing the corruption and
environmental harm associated with illegal mining, he hopes to set a precedent
for accountability and stewardship among his chiefs.