How Can You Hold On To Laws That Prevent You From Returning Looted Items – Otumfuo Asks British Museum Directors

On July 19, 2024, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, addressed the ongoing issue of the Ashanti Kingdom’s artefacts during a lecture at the British Museum in the United Kingdom. The lecture, titled “Asante Culture and Heritage: Past and Present,” highlighted the King’s concerns over British laws that continue to prevent the return of artefacts taken during the 1874 Sagrenti War.

In his address, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II acknowledged the recent cooperation of British authorities, who agreed to loan 32 artefacts back to the Ashanti Kingdom. However, he firmly stated that loan agreements are insufficient and that the laws blocking the permanent repatriation of these items need urgent revision.

The King emphasized that it is universally recognized that many cultural objects in British museums were acquired through unethical means during the colonial era. He questioned the morality and legality of maintaining laws that protect such acquisitions, asserting that this stance contradicts principles of justice and integrity upheld by international bodies such as UNESCO and endorsed by countries like France.

“The return of cultural artefacts looted or unethically acquired is an inalterable demand of the Ashanti Kingdom,” Otumfuo Osei Tutu II declared. He further articulated that everyone involved, whether victims of injustice or those hindered from correcting these wrongs, must act with sincerity and conscience.

The Asantehene urged the British government to act swiftly in reviewing and amending the existing laws to facilitate the rightful return of the artefacts. He expressed hope that this legal revision would happen soon, allowing for a rational and just resolution to the issue of cultural restitution.

This appeal from the Asantehene underscores a broader, ongoing debate about the restitution of cultural heritage items taken during colonial times, calling for international cooperation and a reevaluation of historical injustices.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com