The Occupant of the Golden Stool, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has jogged the memory of traditional authorities in his realm about the ownership of stool properties in their control.
He noted that chiefs are only stewards of such assets and must make sure they are smoothly passed on to successors after their demise.
The concerns arise from the trend of increasing litigations between immediate family members and stool elders over properties in the care of chiefs after their death.
“Such properties must be registered in the name of the stool and not traditional authorities so that successors won’t encounter challenges. We have to sit and look at these issues carefully.”
“All traditional authorities here must also take note of this. All assets you inherit when you ascend a stool and all other assets you make upon ascension are not your personal properties. They are for the stool,” His Majesty said.
He posited that it forms part of tradition and cultural practices that must not be downplayed.
Additionally, he alluded to an entrenchment of this regulation as a statute in Asanteman.
With the assistance of Sampahene Nana Samgba Gyafla, a judge by profession, Otumfuo indicated, the entrenchment of the statute would be simplified.
The concern was raised on March 11, 2024, during the second meeting of the Asanteman Council when the King upon inquiry found out the transition of stool properties to the new Paramount Chief of the Offinso Traditional Area, Nana Dwamena Akenten II, has been marred with challenges.
Source: Manhyia Palace
