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President John Dramani Mahama has called on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to leverage his influence in supporting efforts to address Ghana’s current economic challenges.
Speaking at the first Akwasidae celebration at the Manhyia Palace on January 19, 2025, Mahama acknowledged the severity of the country’s economic crisis and sought the Asantehene’s continued assistance to help navigate the turbulent economic landscape.
The President expressed his gratitude for the role the Asantehene played during his previous administration (2013–2017), particularly in fostering economic growth and assisting with the resolution of challenges during times of macroeconomic instability.
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He noted that Otumfuo Osei Tutu II had been instrumental in helping smoothen the path toward economic prosperity and progress in the past, and Mahama called on him again for support in these difficult times.
“Our nation Ghana is facing a dire economic crisis,” Mahama stated. “This particular crisis is characterised by a high rate of inflation, macroeconomic instability, a depreciating currency, and a debt default that has shut us out of the international credit market. It is a more daunting challenge than we have ever experienced in our history.”
He continued, acknowledging the economic difficulties faced during his previous tenure and highlighting the importance of working together with influential leaders like Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to find solutions. “I had the privilege of calling on you to use your influence and diplomacy to smoothen the path. And anytime I called on you, you didn’t hesitate. I would like to thank you for your cooperation. I look forward to working together once again to put our nation back on its feet.”
In response, the Asantehene, through the paramount chief of the Mampong Traditional Area, Dasebre Osei Bonsu II, urged President Mahama to fulfil all promises made during his time in office.
“We would like you to please always remember the undertakings and promises you have made. I implore you to fulfil all your promises to us in the great Asante Kingdom,” Dasebre Osei Bonsu II said, speaking on behalf of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. “We have absolute trust in you that you shall not let us down.”
The Asantehene’s representative emphasised the importance of continued development within the Ashanti Region, assuring the President of the Kingdom’s support in the completion of ongoing infrastructure projects.
He expressed confidence that President Mahama would live up to his commitments, particularly in the area of healthcare and other critical development initiatives within the region.
Mahama reaffirmed his dedication to completing stalled and abandoned projects, especially in healthcare, as part of his ongoing efforts to advance development in the Ashanti Region.
