Former Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, has described Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, as the embodiment of wisdom, peace, unity, humility, and development, praising his immense contribution to Ghana’s stability and progress.
Speaking in an interview with Kofi Boakye on Nkwantannanso on Opemsuo Radio, he said his admiration for the Asantehene deepened during the eight years he worked closely with him in the Ashanti Region.
“Asantehene is the embodiment of wisdom, love, unity, humility, peace, development, and concern for the welfare of his people,” he stated.
According to Hon. Osei Mensah, unlike many leaders whose flaws become more visible at close range, the Asantehene’s wisdom and humility become more evident the closer one gets to him.
“Normally, when you get closer to people, the respect you have for them reduces, but with the Asantehene, the closer you get, the more your love and respect for him grow,” he said.
He praised Otumfuo’s commitment to peacebuilding, noting that he has consistently resolved conflicts brought before him and has played a critical role in restoring peace in various parts of the country.
Hon. Osei Mensah cited the Dagbon conflict as one of the major disputes successfully resolved under the mediation of the Asantehene after several previous attempts had failed.
He also referenced the Bawku conflict, stating that Otumfuo continues to work tirelessly toward achieving lasting peace there.
“Chieftaincy and land disputes that existed across the Ashanti Region before his reign have largely been resolved, and many communities are now peaceful,” he added.
Touching on development, the former Minister highlighted several major projects in the Ashanti Region which he said benefited from the Asantehene’s influence and intervention.
These included the Kejetia Market redevelopment projects, the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital maternity and children’s block, and the Prempeh I International Airport project.
He further praised the Otumfuo Education Fund for helping many students access education through support from chiefs and communities inspired by the Asantehene.
In the area of health, he commended Otumfuo’s role in supporting initiatives such as the maternity block at Manhyia Hospital and free dialysis support at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
Hon. Osei Mensah also credited the Asantehene with contributing significantly to Ghana’s democracy and political stability by regularly engaging political leaders before and after elections.
“Whenever elections approach, he invites political leaders individually to counsel and advise them,” he disclosed.
According to him, some political actors have even signed peace pacts under the guidance of the Asantehene to ensure peaceful elections.
He further noted that Otumfuo’s international recognition demonstrates the level of respect he commands globally, referencing his address at the United Nations General Assembly.
“If we are talking about wisdom and peacebuilding, Otumfuo cannot be left out. He has made Asanteman and Ghana proud,” he said.
The former Ashanti Regional Minister concluded by expressing gratitude to the Asantehene for the guidance and support he received throughout his years in public office.
Source:
opemsuo.com
