The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, issued a strong rebuke to some members of the Agona royal family who appeared before the Asanteman Council on Monday, July 28, 2025, seeking forgiveness over past legal actions.
As reported by Opemsuo.com, the Agona royals—through Tepahene Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem—requested a pardon for court cases filed nearly 20 years ago by their late uncle against the Asantehene. These cases were pursued in the High Court, Court of Appeal, and ultimately the Supreme Court, with all rulings going against the Agona royals.
The conflict stemmed from a ruling by the Asantehene that questioned the legitimacy of the then-reigning queen mother, concluding she lacked royal blood. Since the passing of Agonahene Nana Frimpong Anokye Ababio in 2022, the Agona stool has remained vacant, and the royals are now seeking reconciliation to allow a new chief to be installed.
Before Otumfuo gave his response, various paramount chiefs deliberated on the issue. Some supported the idea of forgiveness, emphasizing tradition and spirituality, while others cautioned that leniency might undermine royal authority.
Juabenhene Nana Otuo Sereboe II appealed for mercy, highlighting the spiritual implications. “They are descendants of Komfo Anokye. If we expel everyone who makes a mistake, Asanteman cannot progress,” he argued.
However, other chiefs expressed concern. One questioned the timing and sincerity of the apology, saying, “Why now? Where was this remorse when your uncle took the Asantehene to court? Forgiveness without accountability sets a bad precedent.”
Otumfuo, visibly displeased, described the Agona royals as “ungrateful”, recalling that he personally warned their late uncle, Owusu Afriyie, about the consequences of his actions, which were ignored.
Adding to the controversy, the royals were also accused of withholding the sacred Amoampong deity, a move the Asantehene described as disrespectful. He insisted that the deity must be returned before any apology would be considered.
“You’ve made serious mistakes. How do you seek forgiveness while still holding onto what doesn’t belong to you?” Otumfuo questioned.
He instructed Tepahene to ensure the deity’s return, noting that cleansing rites must be performed before their plea can be formally accepted.
