New Patriotic Party's Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has debunked allegations he made derogatory remarks about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene.
In a statement dated January 11, Wontumi described the allegations as false, malicious, misleading and a calculated attempt by some elements to pitch the NPP and his good self against the Asantehene.
He believes the reports are orchestrated by his opponents, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to create public discontent towards him.
“I have never made any statement or gestures, before, during or after the vetting that should warrant such disgraceful and an unfounded reportage, and, I therefore, urge party faithfuls and the good people of Asanteman to respectfully, disregard this and treat it with the contempt it deserves.”
“What was laughable is the fact that the writers and sponsors of this malicious venture, could not even provide any evidence to buttress their points as they hid behind ‘it is alleged’, ‘he is reported to have..., but could not make a definite statement in their reportage,” excerpts of his release stated.
Chairman Wontumi further stressed that he will never attempt to disrespect the authority of Asanteman or its people under any circumstances.
“As nature would give it, I come from a home with strong understanding of traditions and customs, respect for traditional authorities, and graciously, I have the privilege to serve my party in a capacity as the Regional Chairman in the Asante Kingdom.”
“With my years of service to the Golden Stool as the regional chairman, I have served with pride and in dignity to the Asantehene, and, there have never been any moment that my actions and inactions have suggested insubordination to the occupant of the golden stool because I serve the NPP and ultimately the Golden Stool,” he added.
A report this week suggested, the Manhyia Palace has issued a summon to Wontumi.
According to a report by Onuaonline.com, the incident occurred during a sitting of the NPP parliamentary primaries vetting committee last week.
Wontumi, without provocation, reportedly declared his intention to challenge the Asantehene, stating, "I have built my own kingdom, I have my own police and military, and I will speak my mind to Otumfuo if I disagree on an issue with him."
The report highlighted the presence of NPP National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, who chaired the vetting committee during the incident. Additionally, Kokosohene, Nana Kwaku Duah who was also present at the said meeting, expressed his dissatisfaction with Wontumi's statements, reportedly stating, "For you to even say those words in my presence is unacceptable, and I’m not happy about your weird and disrespectful behaviour."