Otumfuo summons Chairman Wontumi
The Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on orders of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has requested that Justin Kodua Frimpong, the General Secretary of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), bring Bernard Antwi Bosiako, also known as Wontumi, the Ashanti regional Chairman of the party, before them due to allegations of disrespect towards the Asantehene.
During the NPP’s vetting of parliamentary aspirants last week, Chairman Wontumi supposedly challenged the authority of the Asantehene. In a public statement, Wontumi boldly claimed that he would confront Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, if they were to disagree on a matter. Wontumi even boasted about building his own domain in Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti region, declaring fearlessness towards anyone, including Otumfuo.
Witnesses at the vetting event, including panel Chair Henry Nana Boakye, were left dumbstruck by Wontumi’s display of power and arrogance. This incited anger from Nana Kwaku Duah, the Kokosohene, who was present when Wontumi made these disrespectful comments about his overlord, the Asantehene.
Insulted by Wontumi’s behaviuor, Kokosohene demanded that he retract his words and offer an apology. The unprovoked attack on Otumfuo has caused outrage at the Manhyia Palace, leading to Wontumi being summoned before the Council.