Otumfo Osei Tutu II: Time is watching over him

Former President of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev, once told Erich Honecker, Head of East Germany: “If you do not go with the times, time will make you go.” As Honecker clung to his traditions and beliefs, Germans united, and he eventually died in exile in Chile in the home of his daughter.

In Asanteman, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II this week destooled Nana Kwabena Nsia Adabio, Kenyasi No. 2 Manhene, after 89 years as Paramount Chief. The old man appeared not to have followed the traditions of the Golden Stool and the Ashanti Empire.

King Charles III of the United Kingdom knows his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, was a remarkable monarch who occupied the throne longer than Queen Victoria. The death of Princess Diana taught the monarchy that it must change and adapt to the expectations of people in a modern world. Old royal traditions are not sacred in themselves; they are like old pieces in a museum. A monarchy in a democratic setting—where voices call for its abolition—must constantly earn the trust and support of citizens.

While King Charles III follows the old rules of the British monarchy, adapting only cautiously to modern demands, his son and future king, Prince William, the Prince of Wales, has publicly declared that once he becomes King, he will implement radical changes. As Prince of Wales, he already demonstrates what he envisions: not a King above the people, but a King who serves his people. Royal critics may find it harder to argue for abolishing the monarchy when Prince William sits in Buckingham Palace. It seems likely he will pass this new style on to his son, Prince George, who may go even further in engaging with the people of the UK.

In Africa, the clocks tick differently. Kings like Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and others insist that tradition is tradition and must be followed to the letter. According to the 1992 Constitution of the Fourth Republic of Ghana, they have no constitutional authority, only representation in a council to voice their interests and concerns. Otherwise, they rule in their kingdoms as long as people believe in them and their authority.

As their tool of authority, Ghana’s royals rely on traditional rights to keep their kingdoms intact and under their leadership. Being carried above the heads of their subjects, using sacred and black rituals, protected by huge umbrellas, and performing traditional dances are visible signs of a long-standing royal tradition that dates back generations. A careful blend of old traditions and modern forms of royal leadership is not evident among them. Unlike Prince William, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, or his son, would hardly be seen sharing meals with ordinary Ghanaians, sitting in classrooms or KG rooms, or playing football with them.

European royals have come a long way in opening up to the public, while African royals still live by old traditions. Time is watching over African royals just as it watches over European royals.