The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has reaffirmed his commitment to political neutrality, stating that his loyalty is to Ghana and its people rather than any political party.
Addressing members of the Asante community in Toronto, Canada, on Saturday, the revered traditional ruler said he has consistently worked with every democratically elected President of Ghana, offering guidance and counsel regardless of political affiliation.
“My conviction is that any government elected by the people of Ghana, I have to work with the President and offer him my advice on the quiet,” Otumfuo said.
“I work with whoever Ghanaians elect as President; I am now working with President John Dramani Mahama,” he added.
The Asantehene explained that while some leaders accept his advice and others may choose not to, he has always preferred to provide counsel privately rather than publicly criticise any sitting President.
“Those who will listen, do listen; those who don’t listen, they don’t listen,” he noted. “But I won’t say it in public that a President didn’t listen to my advice.”
Responding to longstanding public speculation about his political leanings, Otumfuo said his willingness to engage governments across party lines has often led to different political labels being attached to him.
“Sometimes they would brand me as NDC, the next time they would say I am NPP,” he remarked. “And in all, I say, I like it and would even add that I am CPP. I do this to ensure there is peace in Ghana.”
His comments drew applause from members of the Ghanaian community in attendance, many of whom praised his longstanding role as a unifying national figure.
The Asantehene’s visit to Canada forms part of a broader engagement aimed at promoting trade, investment, green energy initiatives, and institutional partnerships between Ghana and Canada.
He also encouraged Ghanaians living abroad to remain connected to their cultural heritage and continue serving as positive ambassadors of Ghana wherever they find themselves.
By Peter Quao Adattor/paqmediagh
