Okuapem: The Office of the Okuapehemaa of the Akuapem Traditional Area has raised objections to the alleged enstoolment of former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo as the Mmrahene of Akuapem.
According to Ghana Web, Okuapehemaa Nana Afua Nketia Obuo II and Asonahene Nana Kwasi Omenako II have expressed concerns over announcements of Justice Sophia Akuffo's intended enstoolment on May 20, 2026.
The statement from the Okuapehemaa's office claims that the enstoolment was allegedly initiated by Odehye Kwadwo Kesse, whose legitimacy as Okuapehene is currently under scrutiny due to ongoing judicial and customary disputes. The office highlighted a judgment delivered on April 30, 2020, by the Judicial Committee of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs, which outlined the customary procedures for nominating and installing an occupant of the Ofori Kuma Stool. These procedures were allegedly not followed in the purported enstoolment of Odehye Kwadwo Kesse, a decision confirmed by the Judicial Committee of the National House of Chiefs.
The release emphasized that the traditional role of the Okuapehemaa in nominating a suitable candidate, following consultations with the Abrewatia and the elderly women of the royal family, was disregarded. The statement also mentioned that contempt proceedings were initiated against Odehye Kwadwo Kesse and another individual at the High Court in Koforidua. The Court convicted them for contempt and imposed a fine of Ten Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS10,000.00) each, which they duly paid. However, the convicts have not purged themselves of the contempt.
An application filed at the Supreme Court seeking to overturn the High Court's decision was dismissed on February 20, 2024, affirming the High Court's jurisdiction in the matter. In light of these developments, the Okuapehemaa encouraged Justice Sophia Akuffo to exercise caution, highlighting the principle 'Nemo dat quod non habet'-no one gives what he does not have.
The office clarified that the statement was not intended to undermine Justice Sophia Akuffo, a distinguished jurist and respected legal personality in Ghana. Instead, it aimed to preserve the integrity of Akuapem customs and traditions and prevent notable individuals from becoming entangled in unresolved traditional and judicial disputes. The Okuapehemaa's office also urged the media, the general public, and stakeholders to take note of existing judicial rulings and the legal implications surrounding the purported enstoolment.