Kumasi, Ghana – On January 19, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama met with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, seeking the monarch’s support to address Ghana’s economic challenges. The meeting emphasized unity and the crucial role of traditional leadership in tackling the nation’s pressing economic issues.

During the visit, President Mahama highlighted the nation’s economic difficulties, including high inflation, macroeconomic instability, a depreciating currency, and a debt default that has restricted access to international credit markets. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “As we have inherited a difficult economic situation, I will be calling on you again from time to time. And I know that anytime I call on you, you will not hesitate so that we work together to put our nation back on its feet.”

The Asantehene, through the Paramount Chief of the Mampong Traditional Area, Dasebre Osei Bonsu II, responded by urging President Mahama to fulfill his promises to the people of Ghana. He expressed confidence in the President’s leadership, stating, “We have absolute trust in you that you shall not let us down. All ongoing developmental projects within the kingdom and across all kingdoms, you will fulfil them.”

President Mahama also reaffirmed his commitment to the development of the Ashanti Region, pledging to complete stalled and abandoned infrastructure projects, particularly in the healthcare sector. He acknowledged the Asantehene’s previous support during his earlier tenure and expressed optimism that their collaboration would yield positive outcomes for the nation.

The meeting underscores the critical role of traditional leaders in Ghana’s socio-economic development and highlights the government’s dedication to fostering partnerships aimed at national progress. Analysts have praised this move as a strategic effort to unite political and traditional leadership for a common goal.