Tension brews in Asamankese over Okyenhene’s ‘controversial’ elevation of a chief

Tensions are rising in Asamankese and Anum in Ghana's Eastern Region following the elevation of Asamankese-Anum Chief, Barima Essah Kwesi Mensah, to Osabarima status by Okyenhene Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin.

This move, seen as undermining Asamankese Chief Osabarima Adu Darko III's authority, has sparked controversy.

Residents accuse the Okyenhene of acting unilaterally, fearing long-term conflicts.

Elders and opinion leaders from Anum challenge the legitimacy and merit of this elevation, emphasizing historical and traditional contexts that Anum settlers have no villages or territories, making the elevation unprecedented and potentially problematic.

The community calls for traditional leaders to address the issue to avoid civil disorder and lasting chieftaincy disputes.