Akwasi Agyemang Comparison Is a Heavy Crown – KMA Mayor Responds to High Expectations

The Mayor of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Hon. Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, aka King Zuba has acknowledged the weight of being compared to one of Kumasi’s most iconic leaders, Barima Nana Akwasi Agyeman, describing it as a “heavy crown” that signifies deep expectations and public trust.

Barima Nana Akwasi Agyeman, affectionately known as Okumkom—which literally means “killer of hunger”—was a respected Ghanaian civil servant and a distinguished member of the Asante Royal Family.

He served for several years as the Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, earning a legendary status for his commitment to public welfare and his relentless efforts to improve living standards in the city.

In recent weeks, citizens and observers have drawn parallels between the current mayor and the revered Okumkom. In an interview on the Lawson TV/Radio Ghana Se Sen Morning Show with Kwame Tanko, King Zuba responded with humility and resolve.

“The Akwasi Agyemang tag is a big responsibility. If you are compared to him, it means there’s something great expected of you. It’s a heavy crown, but I am prepared to wear it with humility and work,” he said during a stakeholder interaction.

King Zuba emphasized that while he respects the legacy of his predecessors, particularly Okumkom, he is focused on writing his own chapter in Kumasi’s development.

“Leadership is not about competing with the past, but about continuing the mission. I’m here to serve, not to be measured—but if I’m to be measured, let it be by my impact,” he added.

The Mayor also reflected on his challenging transition from being the Municipal Chief Executive for Obuasi to overseeing Kumasi, Ghana’s second-largest city.

“The volume of work at KMA is four times tougher than Obuasi. It was a tough start, and I wasn’t given much orientation. But I had to learn quickly,” he admitted.

Despite the steep learning curve, Mayor Ofori Agyemang said he draws motivation from the trust placed in him by both the public and the revered Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

“Otumfuo’s support motivates me. I will not let him down,” he said confidently. “His faith in me energizes me to deliver results.”

With deep respect for tradition and a clear vision for Kumasi’s future, the Mayor pledged to pursue bold development strategies that uplift the city’s residents while preserving the legacy of past leadership.

“The crown may be heavy, but I carry it in service of Kumasi and the people who believe in me,” he concluded.