The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has cautioned chiefs under his jurisdiction to desist from partisan politics as he says such acts denigrate the chieftaincy institution.
Addressing the final 2016 session of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs in Kumasi, the Asantehene warned chiefs under his jurisdiction not to meddle in politics.
His warning comes as more than 60 chiefs across the country have publicly endorsed the candidature of the governing National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) John Mahama and the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP), Nana Akufo-Addo ahead of the polls.
But the Asantehene has said, “if you want to engage in politics then I will advise you to abdicate your stool.”
“Leaders of the various political parties visit you at your various palaces and they give you gifts but do not be swayed by these gifts to start endorsing them because that is not you work as a chief. ”
“When they come with their gifts, collect them but do not engage in politics,” the Asantehene advised his chiefs.
‘Report Chiefs who endorse candidates – Chieftaincy minister’
The Minister for Chieftaincy and Traditional Affairs, Henry Seidu Danaa, also urged persons concerned with Chiefs endorsing presidential aspirants, despite the act being unlawful, to report them to their respective Regional House of Chiefs to have the issues addressed.
According to him, the constitution frowns on traditional rulers mounting political platforms or displaying party paraphernalia.
‘Chiefs endorse Mahama, Nana Addo’
Chiefs that have endorsed President Mahama include the Chief of Sunyani, Nana Bosoma Asor Nkrawiri, Chief of Yeji, Nana Pemapin Yaw Kagbrese, the chief of Bassa, Nana Owusu Sekyi III and the Chief of Odumase No. 1, Nana Kwasi Yeboah.
Some of those who have endorse Akufo Addo include the Chief of Garu, Naba Asuguru Akuntam Wini, Chief of Bawku, Naba Asigiri Azoka Abugrago II and Paramount Chief of the Tumu Traditional Area, Kuoro Richard Babini Kanton VI.
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