Zero Tolerance At Manhyia

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has warned chiefs that those found to have taken bribes will be summarily destooled. Those who have given bribes will also be handed over to the police for the law to take its cause.

The Judicial Committee according to Otumfuo will be reviewed from time to time to ensure administration of transparent justice. Judgements will be thrown away if found to be in doubt.

The Asantehene made these statements in reaction to widespread reports of corruption, which he said has tainted the sacred institution of chieftaincy in Asanteman.

"No court in Ghana will be allowed to entertain any case which has been dealt with by me," Otumfuo stated when addressing the Traditional Council in Kumasi.

This is in view of 50 land and chieftaincy cases listed by his secretary for resolution.

The Asantehene was of the view that powerful and wealthy chiefs often use their influence to usurp the rights of less powerful opponents. He said the Judicial Committee has a high rate of corruption and added that he will personally appoint chiefs to the Judicial Committee.

Nana Osei Tutu reprimanded the Judicial Council saying that if cases were handled fairly they would not travel so far as to the Supreme Court.

He disclosed that two committees will be appointed, one comprising three people and the second made up of eleven people to settle disputes. He explained that when a case is brought before the committee those involved will be directed to provide evidence as to how they acquired the land. The first committee plus a government surveyor will be sent to examine the disputed area and subsequently a report sent to the second committee. Based on that report the second body can question the members for clarification.

Otumfuo said when the document goes through that process the land will revert to its rightful owners and will be documented to curb future litigation.

He warned of serious repercussions for committee members found to be collecting bribes of land from those involved in litigation.

Otumfuo expressed the fear that chieftaincy it would lose all respect if corruption is harboured.

The Bantamahene on behalf of the chiefs assured Otumfuo of the chiefs' preparedness to live above reproach.