National House of Chiefs has no mandate to install chiefs – Asantehene

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has stated that the National House of Chiefs does not possess the authority to install chiefs, stressing that such powers lie solely with traditional councils.

He made the remarks during a courtesy call by Parliament’s Select Committee on Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs at the Manhyia Palace on Tuesday, May 13, 2026.

Addressing members of the committee, the Asantehene cautioned against the politicisation of elections within the National House of Chiefs and urged stakeholders to safeguard the integrity of the chieftaincy institution.

“What everybody must note is that the House of Chiefs cannot install chiefs. They don’t have that authority. It is the traditional council that does,” he stated.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II further called on Parliament and other relevant authorities to ensure greater clarity regarding the responsibilities of the various Houses of Chiefs in matters concerning the enstoolment and recognition of chiefs.

The Asantehene also stressed that he does not rely on government when handling traditional and chieftaincy matters, explaining that his decisions are guided by customs, traditions and the established practices of the Asante Kingdom.

He noted that he had no intention of presenting himself as an autocratic leader and maintained that he harboured no personal grievances against anyone.

Touching on historical territorial arrangements, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II stated that the Brong Ahafo area historically formed part of Western Ashanti, adding that despite constitutional changes over the years, that arrangement has remained unchanged.

He further indicated that he would continue to uphold truth and fairness in his leadership and urged the Parliamentary Select Committee to take decisive measures to address challenges facing the chieftaincy institution in Ghana.