Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has officially destooled Nana Awua Gyau Atuomi, the Gyaasehene of Sabronum, along with two other traditional leaders, for their involvement in illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, within the Traditional Area.
The destoolment also affected the Sabronum Akyeamehene and the Baamuhene. This decision came after a thorough review of a petition submitted by concerned individuals from the Traditional Area, which currently has no Paramount Chief, on Monday, August 26, 2024.
The petition was publicly read before the Asanteman Council, led by Otumfuo, at the Manhyia Palace. The document accused the Gyaasehene of engaging in and facilitating illegal mining activities, which have severely impacted the only source of drinking water in the area, the River Asuonfou.
In response, the Gyaasehene, along with the Akyeamehene, Baamuhene, the District Chief Executive (DCE) of the Area, the Assemblyman, and two other residents, were given the opportunity to present their cases before the Council.
Nana Gyau Atuomi denied all allegations, with the Kyeamehene testifying in his defense. However, the Baamuhene and others took a firm stance against the Gyaasehene. Testimonies revealed that nearly all traditional authorities in the area were implicated in illegal mining activities, with some receiving financial benefits from the miners.
In delivering his verdict, Otumfuo disclosed that he had authorized an investigation by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) into the allegations months before the town’s residents petitioned his office. The NIB’s findings implicated the Gyaasehene.
Otumfuo stated, “Gyaasehene, Akyeamehene, you failed to take care of the Traditional Area. You have used the position given to you to destroy the land. I first learned about it in the paper—Chronicle—and then sent some NBI officials to investigate and ascertain the veracity of the claim. The report implicated you.”
He further warned, “Your leadership ends today, and I will get you arrested if you try anything funny as you leave. The DCE was not bold enough to have you arrested, but I will. You are losing the power you abused today. Sabronum is not your property, and so you can’t do as you please there.”
As a result, the Asantehene appointed the Akwamuhene of Sabronum to oversee the area until a new chief was enstooled.
As part of this process, Otumfuo supervised the election of a candidate, Kofi Asante, to assume the role of the new chief.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Isaac Justice Bediako
