Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin II, is not a stranger to controversies. They come to him as second nature. One of such is his recent outburst when president Akufo-Addo, toured the Eastern region.
According to him, persons who have been criticising the president over the current economic hardship are uncivilised villagers, witches, and wizards who have no sense of appreciation.
“We must appreciate the feat of the president and show him appreciation for what he has done for Ghana. We must defend and protect him.
“Those insulting the president are children of villagers. They are uncivilised. No well-nurtured person will insult an elderly. If you were raised in the Church, you will not insult an elder. If you are not a villager, then you may be a witch or wizard.
“Not all will like you. Even Jesus Christ was crucified. It won’t bother me if they speak with sincerity, but when you speak with hate, witchcraft, and envy, you must be careful because one day, one day! one day! one day! One day! The truth will overcome evil lies and envy,” the chief said.
We make haste to admit that traditional rulers play a central role in nation building. Even then, there is no justification, whatsoever, for the comments of Okyehene at a time like this considering the fact that Ghanaians are suffering under the current economic mess, brought about by his cousin, who is the president.
As a newspaper, we expect our Chiefs, whose citizens are at the short end of the stick to be the ones echoing their sentiments and calling on the political leaders to introduce policies and programmes to ameliorate their suffering.
Okyehenene, who was expected at all times, to speak like a Chief, unfortunately over the years, has allowed his political colours to cloud his judgement.
