The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has stripped Nana Amofa Twumasi II, chief of Mpasaaso No.2 in the Ashanti Region, of his title following multiple allegations, including illegal mining activities popularly referred to as galamsey.
The chief, who served for 41 years, was also accused of lacking a legitimate royal background and failing to provide proper leadership and accountability to his people and the traditional authorities.
After appearing before the Asanteman Kumasi Traditional Council at the Manhyia Palace, he was found guilty of the charges.
The primary reason for his destoolment was his alleged involvement in illegal mining within the Mpasaaso community, which has resulted in severe environmental damage, particularly to water bodies.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II condemned the chief’s actions, stating that traditional leaders have a duty to protect the land and uphold cultural values.
In recent months, the Manhyia Palace has removed several chiefs for engaging in illegal mining as part of efforts to preserve natural resources and maintain the integrity of traditional leadership.
For a former Deputy Attorney General, Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, stronger leadership is needed in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey), warning of dire consequences if urgent action is not taken.
Speaking at a leadership conference at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) on Friday (7 March), Tuah-Yeboah stressed that while the country has long diagnosed the problem, the absence of decisive leadership has hindered progress.
He acknowledged the resistance that comes with tackling the menace but insisted that leaders must stand firm.
“You look at the issue of galamsey. It has been with us for a very long time. But we are having challenges all because we’ve diagnosed the problem, but we’ve taken leadership out of the equation. We need to fight it.
“In fighting such a canker, it will be met with stiff opposition, but as leaders, we must fight it regardless,” he emphasized.
