The Ashanti Kingdom has recently been mired in controversy as a result of the outspoken and provocative remarks by Dormaahene, the paramount chief of Dormaa. Dormaahene’s animosity for Otumfuo, the Asantehene, and his incessant rantings about the Ashanti Kingdom have raised eyebrows and left many wondering why the sub-chiefs in the Ashanti Region have remained silent.
The Ashanti Kingdom, also known as the Asante Kingdom, has a long and illustrious history in Ghana. The Kingdom was established in Ghana around 1701, according to historical documents. During this period, the Ashanti Kingdom was one of the most powerful and prominent kingdoms in West Africa. Its control and influence stretched beyond its boundaries, and it played a vital part in the transatlantic slave trade throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
Dormaahene’s rage and rants against the Ashanti Kingdom are the result of a multitude of circumstances. He has voiced his unhappiness with Otumfuo, the present ruler of the Ashanti Kingdom, holding the title of Asantehene. Dormaahene argues that Ghana does not have a monarchy and that the title of Asantehene is invalid. This viewpoint appears to originate from his personal ideas and understanding of Ghana’s history and administration.
The Ghanaian constitution recognises the Ashanti Kingdom as a traditional authority within the country and acknowledges the role of the Asantehene as the paramount chief of the Ashanti Kingdom. This recognition has been upheld throughout Ghana’s history and is an important part of the country’s cultural heritage.
The silence of the sub-chiefs in the Ashanti Region about Dormaahene’s slanderous remarks about Manhyia Palace and Otumfuo is deeply concerning. It calls into doubt their understanding of their own history as well as their devotion to the Ashanti Kingdom. It is unclear if their silence indicates an acceptance of Dormaahene’s attacks or simply a lack of knowledge about the situation. Their silence, however, is troublesome, since it allows for conjecture and dissension among the Ashanti community.
The root cause of Dormaahene’s anger, hatred, and rantings towards the Asante Kingdom is not entirely clear. It could be attributed to personal grievances, disagreements over power dynamics within the kingdom, or a clash of egos between Dormaahene and Otumfuo. Whatever the cause may be, it is evident that Dormaahene harbours strong negative feelings towards Otumfuo and the Ashanti Kingdom.
The National Peace Council sees Dormaahene’s public thrashing of Otumfuo as nothing wrong, and those who matter have remained silent. It is gradually being pushed into an agenda to sow discontent and ethnic conflict, which might threaten the country’s tranquil stability.
Ashantibiz
