Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has urged the UK government to repatriate all remaining looted artefacts to their rightful owners.
He emphasised that these artefacts were undeniably acquired through unlawful and unethical means.
This plea follows the UK’s loan of 32 looted artefacts to Manhyia Palace, originally taken by British forces during the colonial period.
While addressing the topic of ‘Asante Culture and Heritage: Past and Present’ in the UK, the Asantehene questioned the morality of laws protecting illegal actions.
He further observed that the repatriation of some looted artefacts is celebrated with the same reverence as state heroes returning from enforced exile, and also symbolizes a spiritual reconnection with lost souls.
“All of us are victims of a system in need of an update. We are either victims of a system that denies us justice or victims of a system that prevents us from administering justice and doing what we know to be the right thing.
“From both sides, we need to sincerely appeal to our conscience, because nobody disputes the fact that much of the cultural objects were obtained through illegal and unethical circumstances. Can anyone in good conscience sustain the enactment of a law to protect illegality?”
“The return is being celebrated at one level with the same reverence as heroes of a state returning from enforced exile, and at another level as marking the spiritual re-connection with lost souls.
“Critically for me, it has stirred among the youth not just a new model of self-believing confidence in their heritage but an inspiration to thrive to add to that heritage of creativity and innovation,” he stated.
