Obrempong Gyamfi Saforo Kyere, Krontihene of Akyem Kotoku State has issued a stern warning to the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to respect culture, customs and traditional leaders in Ghana.
The warning comes on the heels of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s refusal to pay a courtesy call on Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, King of Akyem Kotoku State during his campaign visit to Oda, the capital of the Akyem Kotoku State.
On Monday 19th August 2024, a four member delegation of NPP stalwarts led by Hon Joyce Agyeiwaa MCE of Birim Central Municipal Assembly went to the Krontihene’s Palace to brief him about the itinerary of Vice President Dr Bawumia’’s campaign tour of the Akyem Oda constituency.
Hon Joyce Agyeiwaa, outlined in great detail the various engagements Dr Bawumia would be having in the constituency which engagements did not include paying a courtesy call on the King and his chiefs.
When Obrempong Saforo Kyere asked as to why the Vice President would not meet the King and his chiefs , Mr Eric Nkansah, First Vice Chairman of Akyem Oda Constituency, hinted: “ The Vice President will not call on Oseadeeyo Dr Frimpong Manso IV because he’s already met him in April at Koforidua”.
When pried further about that awkward decision, Hon Agyeiwaa opined : “National officers in charge of Dr Bawumia’s campaign have indicated that Dr Bawumia would not meet the King and his chiefs at His Palace”.
Obrempong Gyamfi Saforo Kyere who was surprised and disturbed at Dr Bawumia’s resolve described the decision as untoward, undiplomatic and pathetic and warned the NPP leadership to tread cautiously in the way they treat traditional leaders.
The vociferous Srodae Chief told the delegation: “ NPP leadership must not forget that wining the Presidency requires 50% plus one vote. And that one vote could come from Akyem Oda”.
The delegation which was not shaken by the warning, then asked the Krontihene to inform all Chiefs in the Akyem Kotoku State to rather come to the Queenmother’s residence and meet Dr Bawumia there.
Dr. Bawumia’s refusal to meet Oseadeeyo Dr Frimpong Manso IV Akyem Kotokuhene and his chiefs has been widely criticized by a great number of town folks.
A great number of town folks have interpreted the action of the Vice President as a sign of disrespect towards the traditional ruler and the people of Akyem Kotoku State and have vowed not to vote for the NPP in the 2024 General Elections.
