The Omanhene of Tepa in the Ashanti Region, Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem I, has cautioned the youth against the recent trend of mishandling dead bodies during funeral rites.
Speaking to the recent practice that is gaining popularity in Ghana in an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb, on April 29, 2025, the Tepahene warned of spiritual implications of the growing trend.
According to the traditional leader, the act constitutes a desecration of the body of the deceased in a way that has far-reaching implications. "Such treatment of the deceased who should be ushered peacefully to the afterlife end up being desecrated by this bad practice creeping into our funeral settings. "Such an act is outrightly considered a desecration of the body of the deceased - which is considered sacred in many cultures and religions and must not only be condemned but stopped," he said.
He stated that the practice reveals a clear disconnect of the youth from the Ghanaian traditions and cultural essence.
