Accra: The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on Ghanaian business executives to base their corporate leadership on integrity, honesty, and humility, emphasizing that sustainable businesses are built on trust.
According to Ghana Web, the Asantehene made these remarks during the Ghana Business Leaders Conclave at the University of Professional Studies, Accra. He highlighted that ethical leadership is vital for national development and the long-term success of businesses. Otumfuo explained that business has traditionally depended on trust and described integrity as a practical standard, observable in leaders' actions when they are unwatched, wielding power, or when profits are involved.
He identified six core values of integrity-honesty, trust, fairness, respect, responsibility, and courage-stating that these universal principles resonate with Ghanaian cultural values. The Asantehene warned executives against unethical practices such as tax evasion, dishonesty, and worker exploitation, cautioning that managerial dishonesty can permeate an entire organisation.
Furthermore, he criticised management styles driven by arrogance and ego, advising leaders to embrace humility and acknowledge that the success of institutions is a collective effort, not the result of one individual's actions.
The Asantehene also pointed out the need for more support for Ghana's private sector. However, he concluded by asserting that private enterprises must adhere to ethical standards to sustain public trust and achieve long-term growth.