Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has destooled Nana Kusi Baaye II, the Chief of Ohwim, following multiple allegations, including his involvement in illegal mining.
The decision was made during a sitting of the Kumasi Traditional Council on Monday, February 24, 2025, where Nana Kusi Baaye II, who had served as Ohwimhene for 16 years, faced charges of desecrating the Great Oath, extortion, illegal land sales and engaging in illegal mining activities.
After a thorough assessment and interrogation at the council meeting, Nana Kusi Baaye II was found guilty of the charges, leading to his immediate destoolment by the Asantehene.
The chief was initially summoned for recklessly invoking the Asantehene’s Great Oath (Ntamkese), an act deemed deceitful to Otumfuo and a desecration of the Golden Stool.
However, further allegations surfaced during the proceedings, including false testimony in a chieftaincy dispute.
Members of his own royal family, including the family head, testified against him, accusing him of selling family lands under the pretense of acting on behalf of the Asantehene, only to later allocate them for illegal mining.
These revelations solidified the case against him, prompting the Asantehene to rule for his destoolment.
In his ruling, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II reaffirmed his commitment to upholding traditional authority and protecting the integrity of the Golden Stool. He emphasized the importance of accountability and ethical leadership within the chieftaincy institution.
Despite the verdict, Nana Kusi Baaye II maintained his innocence, denying all charges leveled against him.
