Put Ghana first: Asantehene tells Mahama appointees during courtesy call

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on President John Dramani Mahama’s appointees to uphold integrity and prioritize the nation’s welfare in their service.

During a courtesy visit to the Jubilee House, the Asantehene emphasized the importance of loyalty, truthfulness and dedication to national development.

The Otumfuo urged the appointees to avoid complacency and focus on their responsibilities.

He highlighted that the nation’s progress depends on the collective efforts of its leaders and called for a commitment to putting Ghana first.

President Mahama, who was re-elected in 2024 for a non-consecutive second term, has pledged to reduce the size of government and enhance efficiency. His administration has already begun implementing policies aimed at economic recovery and infrastructural development.

This meeting follows previous engagements between the Asantehene and President Mahama, where discussions centered on development projects and the welfare of the Ashanti Region.

“Otumfuo wants you in Manhyia“

President Mahama thanked the Asantehene for his role in convincing him to be running mate of the late President Prof. John Atta Mills.

This was at a time Mr. Mahama said he had decided to quit politics.

But, according to Mr. Mahama, he had a call from an individual who said: “Otumfuo wants you in Manhyia.”

The President indicated that the Asantehene was the one whose words convinced him to accept to run with Prof. Mills.

The President described the Ashanti king as “a national icon of peace and visionary leadership,” emphasing Otumfuo’s role in securing peace during chieftaincy disputes.

Mahama pledges to complete key Ashanti Region projects

In response, President Mahama reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive development and outlined a number of key infrastructure projects that will be prioritised in the Ashanti Region, particularly in and around Kumasi. These included the following:

1. Complete the stalled Maternity and Children’s Block at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), a critical project for maternal and child health in the northern sector of the country.

2. Complete the Accra–Kumasi Highway, easing one of the country’s most critical transport corridors;

3. Expand the Kumasi International Airport, enhancing connectivity and regional trade;

4. Deliver the Kumasi City Traffic Programme, aimed at easing congestion and improving urban mobility;

5. Construct two military hospitals in the region to boost healthcare delivery and military readiness.

Also present at the gathering was Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang who recently returned from medical leave.