Why Otumfuo Has Set Outright Destoolment As Punishment For Engaging Land Guards

The Monarch of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has reaffirmed that he will destool any traditional authority who engages the services of land guards under his jurisdiction.

This was during a courtesy visit by both the outgoing and incoming Ashanti Regional Police Commanders on November 5, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace.

Otumfuo noted that land guards are not countenanced.

“I will destool any chief who engages the services of land guards.”

His Majesty stated that he does not give authority to Nananom to incite others to commit acts of violence or kill others.

“When I gave the stool to you, I didn’t ask you to bring land guards to guard the land. I will not give you the power to bring people to kill others. Wherever there is a dispute, inform me and we will resolve them all.”

In addition, His Majesty emphasised that disputes relating to chieftaincy and land are out of bounds for police resolution.

Such issues, the Asantehene noted, are within his remit.

“Land and chieftaincy disputes are within my domain. That is not part of your duty. When any chief brings such cases to you, tell them it will be forwarded to me. The same applies to land disputes. No matter how serious the issue is, when it comes before me, it will be resolved.”

Mr Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe has been reassigned to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) at the national headquarters following his promotion to Commissioner of Police (COP).

He will be replaced by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Arthur Osei Akoto.

Story by Hajara Fuseini