Demeaning, Insulting, Condescending: A breakdown of the ‘worst’ of things said by Otumfuo’s chiefs to Afia PokuaA dispute between a well-known journalist and a king has gripped the attention of many in Ghana. The controversy started when journalist Afia Pokua made remarks criticizing the Ashanti king's approach to managing tensions with other ethnic groups. She also expressed frustration with the political deference shown to him and the perceived dominance of the Asante community.
In an interview on Onua TV, Pokua noted, "Even the president... bowed to show respect to the chief," adding that Asante is not representative of the entire nation. She went as far as suggesting that if the focus remains solely on the Asante region, they might as well change the laws to allow the region to separate from the rest of the country.
These statements were not well received by Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II, the Ashanti king. As the leader of the Ashanti kingdom, he holds significant influence, and it is considered highly disrespectful to openly criticize him. His title, "Asantehene," is complemented by the honorific "Nyame Kessie," meaning greater god, reflecting the immense respect he commands.
Osei Bonsu Sarfo Kantanka, a royal historian who serves the Ashanti king, explained to the BBC that criticism of the Asantehene must follow certain protocols. He emphasized that only the queen mother is permitted to directly reprimand the king. "If you don’t go through the queen mother and criticize the king yourself, then you’re in trouble," Sarfo Kantanka said.
The historian also took issue with Pokua's comment that Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II, who is in his 70s, was hard of hearing, stating that even an ordinary person would take offense to such a remark.
In an attempt to apologize, Pokua, along with TV personality Mona Gucci, visited Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, where the Asantehene resides. They came dressed in black and, accompanied by elders, kneeled on the ground to beg for forgiveness. The scene was captured on television. Despite these efforts, the apology was rejected, and Pokua was told to leave. The Asantehene reportedly said, "Take your cursed self and your troubles with you. Whatever comes your way in the future, deal with it on your own. Do not ever return here."
This dismissal occurred even though Pokua had already apologized on social media and live TV. According to Sarfo Kantanka, the rejection was due to another breach of traditional protocol. He explained that in order for the apology to be accepted, Pokua should have first approached the Agona traditional authority, bringing along her parents and representatives from the TV station that aired the remarks. The Agona chief would then relay the apology to the Asantehene, who would arrange a formal apology at the palace.
Despite the setback, Sarfo Kantanka suggested that if Pokua follows the correct procedures, it might still be possible for her to make amends.
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