The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has destooled the Chief of Ohwim, Nana Kusi Baaye II, over allegations of illegal mining (galamsey), extortion, and desecration of the Great Oath.

During a Kumasi Traditional Council sitting on Monday, February 24, 2025, the Ohwimhene, who had served for 16 years, was found guilty of multiple offenses, including the reckless invocation of the Asantehene’s Great Oath (Ntamkese), illegal land sales, and false testimony in a chieftaincy dispute.

The case took a dramatic turn when members of Nana Kusi Baaye II’s own royal family testified against him. They accused him of selling family lands under the pretense of acting on behalf of the Asantehene, only to later allocate them for illegal mining activities.

Following a thorough interrogation, Otumfuo ruled for his immediate destoolment, reaffirming his stance against galamsey and his commitment to preserving the sanctity of the Golden Stool.

Despite the ruling, Nana Kusi Baaye II maintained his innocence, denying all charges leveled against him.

The destoolment underscores the Asantehene’s ongoing efforts to uphold traditional authority and safeguard the Ashanti Kingdom from illegal activities that threaten its cultural and environmental heritage.