The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has rejected a proposal to include queen mothers in the formal sittings of the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs.
He cited precedence and customs in arguing his position.
He noted that the customs surrounding chieftaincy are sacred ones that should not be altered for administrative purposes.
The traditional ruler made the remarks while addressing the final 2025 meeting of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs on Friday, December 19, 2025.
He was reacting to the proposed amendments to the Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759), pushed by the National House of Chiefs, led by Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II.
The proposal seeks to establish a ‘Chamber of Queenmothers’ and grant them seats alongside chiefs in formal sittings to promote gender equity.
But the Asantehene believes the suggestion is a dangerous overreach that threatens the unique fabric of Asante custom.
He admitted that queen mothers play a critical role in the matrilineal Asante system, where they hold the veto power to select a chief; however, he wants the status quo to remain without any form of alteration.
He stated in Twi that traditions and customs vary across different regions, emphasising the importance of preserving long-standing practices without alteration.
He stated that queen mothers provide counsel in private settings, a status quo that should be maintained, and asserted his commitment to protecting the culture.
He further explained that the tradition of queen mothers selecting chiefs is deeply respected, noting that everyone present owed their position to these women, and reiterated the importance of queen mothers advising behind closed doors.
By: Rainbowradionline.com/Ghana
