The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has ordered the destoolment of Sabronum Gyaasehene, Nana Awua Gyau Atuomi, along with two other traditional leaders in the Sabronum Traditional Area for their involvement in illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey. The other two leaders affected by the order are the Sabronum Akyeamhene and the Baamuhene.
The decision follows a review of a petition submitted by concerned residents of the Sabronum Traditional Area on Monday, August 26, 2024. The petition, which was read publicly before the Asanteman Council at the Manhyia Palace, accused the three leaders of facilitating illegal mining operations, which have led to the pollution of the community’s main water source, the River Asuonfou.
During the session, the Gyaasehene, the Akyeamhene, the Baamuhene, the District Chief Executive (DCE) of the area, an assemblyman, and two residents were given the chance to present their side of the story before the Council. Although Nana Gyau Atuomi denied the allegations and received support from the Kyeamehene, the Baamuhene and others took a strong stance against him.
The investigation revealed widespread complicity among traditional authorities in the area, with several leaders allegedly receiving funds from illegal miners. The Asantehene disclosed that he had previously initiated an investigation through the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) months before the petition reached his office. The NIB’s findings implicated the Gyaasehene.
In delivering his verdict, Otumfuo expressed disappointment in the leaders’ failure to protect the community. “Gyaase, Akyeamehene, you failed to take care of the Traditional Area. You have used the position given to you to destroy the land,” he remarked. He emphasized that Sabronum is not their personal property and warned them against any attempts to undermine the decision, threatening arrest if necessary.
As a consequence of their removal, the Asantehene appointed the Akwamuhene of Sabronum as caretaker while preparations are made to enstool a new chief. In line with the process, Otumfuo oversaw the election of a candidate, Kofi Asante, who is expected to be the next chief of the area.
This decisive move by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II serves as a strong message against the abuse of traditional authority and the destructive impact of illegal mining in the Ashanti Region.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com