The traditional leader threatened to begin collecting taxes on his own if the government does not stop what he calls the continued “projection” of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II—remarks that have gone viral on social media.
The statement was prompted by President John Dramani Mahama’s appearance with the Asantehene at the GJA Awards, an event where both the national flag and the Asante Kingdom flag were displayed.
Agyeman Badu II argued that the display raises constitutional concerns about authority in a republic where the President alone embodies national leadership.
He insisted that the Constitution recognizes only the President as the official head of state, and only the national flag should appear at formal government events. According to him, showing multiple flags blurs the boundary between traditional roles and state power.
Most notably, he suggested that portraying traditional leaders in ways that resemble political authority could weaken centralized governance. His threat to independently levy taxes—a fundamental state responsibility—was intended as a stark illustration of the dangers of this trend.
Agyeman Badu II argued that symbolic acts at presidential events carry more weight than ceremonial visits, as public perceptions of authority are influenced more by symbols than formal protocol.
Reactions across the country have been mixed. Supporters maintain that traditional institutions are central to Ghana’s identity and have coexisted peacefully with modern governance.
Critics warn that his remarks risk politicizing the Asantehene’s image and escalating tensions during an event meant to celebrate journalism.
The incident has revived a longstanding debate: how should Ghana balance traditional authority with constitutional power?
With Agyeman Badu II’s warning now in the spotlight, the GJA Awards episode is set to remain a reference point in ongoing discussions about symbolism, governance, and the interplay between culture and the state.