The ongoing tensions between the Asante Kingdom and Dormaa Traditional Area have taken a dramatic turn following a fiery warning allegedly issued by a man claiming to be a bodyguard of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene. In a widely circulated video, the man directed his anger at Dormaahene Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II and social commentator Ohene David, accusing them of repeatedly insulting the Asantehene and undermining the dignity of the Asante Kingdom.
The self-proclaimed bodyguard, whose identity remains unverified, issued a chilling ultimatum: “If they want blood, they will see blood. If they want water, they will see water.” His words, delivered with visible emotion, have sparked alarm and debate across social media platforms, with many questioning the appropriateness and implications of such threats in a democratic society.
The outburst appears to be a response to recent public statements made by Dormaahene and Ohene David, which some Asante loyalists have interpreted as disrespectful to Otumfuo and the Manhyia Palace. The feud between the two traditional authorities has been simmering for years, rooted in historical disagreements over territorial authority and cultural recognition.
While some supporters of the Asantehene have praised the bodyguard’s passionate defense of tradition, others have condemned the tone and content of his message, warning that such rhetoric could incite violence and deepen divisions. Cultural analysts have urged both sides to de-escalate tensions and engage in respectful dialogue, emphasizing that traditional leadership should be a source of unity, not conflict.
As of now, there has been no official response from Manhyia Palace regarding the video, nor have Dormaahene or Ohene David publicly addressed the threats. However, the Ghana Police Service is being urged by civil society groups to monitor the situation closely and ensure that public discourse remains within the bounds of the law.
With emotions running high and the July 22 deadline looming in a separate ultimatum issued by the Asantehene’s council, the nation watches closely to see whether diplomacy or defiance will shape the next chapter in this unfolding traditional standoff.