Asantehene Urges President Mahama To Lead With Courage And Humility, Cites Public Trust

ACCRA – Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the revered King of Ghana's Asante people, advised President John Dramani Mahama to govern with sustained boldness and humility during a formal visit to the presidential offices on Monday, June 2, 2025. The influential traditional leader highlighted the considerable expectations Ghanaian citizens have placed on President Mahama's administration, referencing his previous accomplishments in public office.

"Ghanaians have hope in you because of your track record. Don’t disappoint them," Otumfuo Osei Tutu II stated, offering both commendation for past successes and counsel for the President's ongoing term. The Asantehene's visit underscores the significant, though often informal, advisory role prominent traditional leaders play in Ghana's national affairs.

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In response, President Mahama affirmed his administration's dedication to actively involving traditional authorities in the country's development processes. "I assure you and all traditional authorities of this government’s full commitment to involve you in national development," President Mahama declared.

He specifically pointed to the government's decision to reactivate the Constitution Review Implementation Committee as a key initiative to help delineate and enhance the roles of traditional leaders within Ghana's contemporary governance framework. This, the President noted, would provide a structured opportunity to formally integrate the long-standing wisdom and authority of traditional institutions into national decision-making and development strategies. The review process is anticipated to clarify how chieftaincy can better interface with democratic institutions for more effective local and national governance.

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President Mahama also used the occasion to announce several strategic infrastructure development plans earmarked for the Ashanti Region, the historical seat of the Asante Kingdom. A major project highlighted was the Accra-Kumasi Expressway, a critical arterial route connecting Ghana’s two largest cities. "We hope to cut sod for the Accra-Kumasi Expressway project early next year," the President announced, signalling a significant step towards the realization of this long-discussed transport link aimed at boosting trade and reducing travel times.

Furthermore, President Mahama pledged the government's commitment to resuming and completing a portfolio of stalled development projects within the Ashanti Region. These include the second phase of the Kejetia Market redevelopment in Kumasi, one of West Africa's most extensive open-air markets.

Other priority projects cited for completion are the Maternity and Children’s Block at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, the region's primary medical referral facility. The Suame Interchange, designed to alleviate traffic congestion in a densely populated area of Kumasi, is also slated for completion.

Additionally, the Afari Military Hospital, a new facility intended to serve both military personnel and the civilian population in the region, and the extension of the runway at Prempeh International Airport in Kumasi to enable the airport to handle larger aircraft and potentially increase international flights, were named among the projects to be advanced. The completion of these varied projects is expected to significantly improve public services, stimulate economic activity, and enhance the overall infrastructure within the Ashanti Region.