I Will Remove Your Name from the Constitution” — Domaahene Issues Bold Warning to Otumfuo

The Domaahene has sparked renewed discussion about traditional authority, historical recognition and Ghana’s constitutional framework after making a strong statement concerning Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

Speaking in an interview aired on Royal TV from his palace, the traditional ruler reportedly said that by the end of his four-year tenure as a Court of Appeal judge, he intends to pursue measures aimed at having the Asantehene’s name removed from the Constitution.

The Domaahene linked his position to longstanding concerns about the historical treatment of the Bono people, particularly issues surrounding the Golden Stool and what he considers the marginalisation of Bono contributions in Ghana’s historical narratives.

He argued that the heritage, rights and historical contributions of the Bono Kingdom have not received adequate recognition over the years. He said his objective is to challenge what he considers historical distortions through lawful and constitutionally recognised processes.

The traditional ruler also stressed that his position should not be interpreted as a personal dispute with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Rather, he presented it as an effort to defend ancestral heritage and ensure that the historical contributions of indigenous communities are properly acknowledged.

He further maintained that any action he takes would have to comply with Ghana’s legal and constitutional framework.

The comments have attracted considerable attention because of their potential implications for the relationship between traditional institutions and constitutional processes. The remarks have also revived broader discussions about the historical narratives surrounding Ghana’s traditional authorities and the representation of different ethnic and cultural groups.

Reactions to the statement have been mixed. Some supporters have welcomed the Domaahene’s position as an attempt to promote Bono history and identity, while others have expressed concern that such public declarations could create tension between traditional authorities.

Constitutional processes have also been highlighted as an important consideration, with legal observers noting that changes to provisions of Ghana’s Constitution are governed by established procedures and cannot simply be carried out unilaterally by an individual.