The Paramount Chief of Dormaa, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, has publicly declared his firm opposition to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s efforts to elevate the Fiapre stool to paramountcy. This stance has ignited a dispute that brings to the fore historical allegiances and regional authority within the Bono Region.
The Dormaahene maintains that the Fiaprehene owes allegiance to the Odomase No.1 Paramount Chief. He asserts that any elevation to paramountcy should not occur without the explicit approval of the Odomase No.1 Chief. This assertion, however, has been strongly refuted by the Chief of Fiapre, Obrempong Professor Kyem Amponsah II. The Fiaprehene, supported by documentation from the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, argues that Fiapre has never been subservient to Odomase No.1.
Professor Kyem Amponsah II elaborates on the nature of the historical relationship between Fiapre and Odomase No.1, describing it as a “father-son relationship” rather than one of allegiance. He references a decade-old committee finding by the then Brong Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs, which concluded that Fiapre did not owe allegiance to Odomase No.1, thus reinforcing his position against Dormaahene’s claims.
Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, who also serves as the President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, remains resolute in his opposition. He has vowed to resist the Asantehene’s attempts, even if it means facing legal consequences. The Dormaahene has made it clear that he is willing to go to jail to uphold his stance, underscoring the gravity of the situation and his commitment to preserving what he views as traditional protocol and authority.
This dispute underscores a broader tension within the region, reflecting deep-seated historical and cultural intricacies. The Dormaahene’s readiness to challenge the Asantehene’s decision in court, and potentially defy judicial rulings, highlights the complexities of chieftaincy matters in Ghana, where historical allegiances, regional autonomy, and traditional leadership roles intersect.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the regional and national authorities will navigate this delicate issue. The outcome will undoubtedly have significant implications for the traditional leadership structure and regional dynamics within the Bono Region and beyond.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com