The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on President John Mahama’s appointees to demonstrate integrity and prioritise the nation’s welfare in their service. 

He advised them to avoid complacency and remain dedicated to their duties, stressing that the nation’s progress depended on the collective commitment of its leaders.

“The President has already made it clear: If you are here to loot, there is no place for that in his government. But if you support him diligently, citizens will recognise his performance, and it will bring honour to the NDC and the nation as a whole.

“Ghanaians have entrusted the country to President John Mahama. He, in turn, has entrusted and assigned responsibilities to you because he trusts you—so do not fail him,” the Asantehene added.

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, was speaking during a courtesy call on the President at the Jubilee House in Accra yesterday.  

The visit, Otumfuo’s first since President Mahama’s return to office, was attended by the Vice-President, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang; the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, and some government officials.  

Also present were some Paramount Chiefs from the Ashanti Region and prominent business leaders, including Osei Kwame Despite and Dr Ofori Sarpong.  

President Mahama described the meeting as more than ceremonial, saying “it is a strong affirmation of the enduring bond between traditional authority and the democratic governance of the republic”.  

Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, President Mahama expressed gratitude to the Asantehene for his pivotal role in convincing him to accept the running mate position alongside the late President John Atta Mills.

“At a time I had decided to quit politics, I received a call saying, ‘Otumfuo wants you in Manhyia’, he recalled, and acknowledged the Asantehene’s influence in shaping his political journey.  

The President described the Otumfuo as “a national icon of peace and visionary leadership,” citing his mediation in chieftaincy disputes and his contribution to national cohesion.  

President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing key development projects in the Ashanti Region, including the stalled Maternity and Children’s Block at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, the Accra-Kumasi Highway, and the expansion of the Kumasi International Airport.

He also announced plans for a city traffic management programme and the construction of two Military Hospitals in the region.