“We Stand for Peace”: Techiman Chiefs Address Otumfuo Convoy Incident
Council emphasizes unity, familial ties with Ashantis, and warns against social media misinformation
- Techiman Traditional Council affirms strong familial and historical ties with Ashantis
- Leaders condemn unverified reports for fueling tensions and urge responsible use of online platforms
- Council reiterates Techiman's cosmopolitan nature and calls for actions that promote harmony across communities
The Techiman Traditional Council has addressed allegations circulating on social media about an alleged attack on the convoy of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, during his recent visit to the Bono East Region.
In a statement released on December 3, 2024, the Council clarified that there is no hostility between the people of Techiman and the Ashantis.
They emphasized the enduring familial ties between the Asantehene and the Techimanhene, both members of the Oyoko Clan, underscoring their shared history of mutual respect and cooperation.
The Council’s statement followed reports that, on December 2, an unidentified youth threw stones at vehicles in the Asantehene’s convoy while it returned to Kumasi after a funeral in Nkoranza. A preliminary police report confirmed stones had been thrown at some buses in the convoy.
The Council refuted claims of enmity and addressed allegations that Otumfuo’s security guards had fired gunshots and mistreated civilians in Techiman. They suggested these claims may have fueled misunderstandings, leading to the incident. They also condemned the role of unverified social media reports in heightening tensions.
“Chieftaincy is a revered institution that must be respected at all times,” the Council stated, while cautioning against the misuse of social media to insult traditional leaders or spread falsehoods.
Thanks to the swift intervention of security personnel, the situation was brought under control. Injured individuals received treatment at the Holy Family Teaching Hospital.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace, the Council described Techiman as a cosmopolitan community that welcomes people from diverse backgrounds and called on the public to avoid actions that could harm unity.
