Paul Nyando, the Ashanti Regional Director of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), has vowed to report the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, over what he describes as a flagrant disregard for traditional authorities.
According to Ghana Web, Nyando accuses the minister of orchestrating the Ashanti Festival, also known as ‘Ashantifest,’ without consulting the traditional leaders, who he believes are the rightful custodians of cultural celebrations in the region.
The festival, which began on April 12, is organized by the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC) and aims to celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage.
However, Nyando claims that the involvement of the region’s chiefs in such events is crucial, and the minister’s actions undermined their role.
In an interview with Kumasi-based Ashh FM, Nyando expressed his intention to meet with Otumfuo as soon as he returns from his travels to inform him of the minister’s actions. “Kumasi belongs to Otumfuo.
You cannot organize a festival without involving the traditional authorities. I will speak to Otumfuo about how the regional minister took it upon himself to organize a festival in his absence,” Nyando said.
He further criticized the minister for focusing on organizing a festival instead of addressing pressing issues like the region’s waste management problems and power supply challenges.
“The regional minister has disregarded the concerns of the people in favor of hosting a festival,” Nyando remarked.
Ashantifest has, however, brought excitement to the region, with various sectors, including fashion, sports, and tourism, benefiting from the cultural celebrations.