Otumfuo recounts how political interference sidelined chieftaincy after independence

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has reflected on what he described as decades of political interference in Ghana's institution of chieftaincy, saying that successive governments at various periods after independence enacted laws that undermined customary authority by removing chiefs or recognising others outside established traditional processes.

The Asantehene noted that Article 270 of the Constitution guarantees the institution of chieftaincy and protects it from legislative interference while preserving the authority of traditional councils and the Houses of Chiefs in matters governed by customary law.

He emphasised that the continued collaboration between the Judiciary and the institution of chieftaincy was essential to strengthening constitutional governance, preserving customary law and promoting peaceful resolution of disputes.