Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, Sir Sam Jonah, has hailed the leadership of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II as a global blueprint for peace, citing his long-standing commitment to dialogue and conflict resolution.
Speaking at a high-level gala in Kumasi to mark the Asantehene’s 27th anniversary on the throne, on Friday, April 24,2026, at the Manhyia Palace, Sir Jonah emphasized that the traditional ruler’s influence extends beyond Ghana and offers critical lessons for a world grappling with instability.
He referenced Otumfuo’s 2019 address at a United Nations high-level forum on the culture of peace, observing that the Asantehene has consistently demonstrated the value of traditional leadership in modern governance.
“Traditional leaders are not relics of the past but potential architects of peace that the modern world desperately needs,” Sir Jonah stated.
He cautioned that the global order is under increasing strain, pointing to ongoing conflicts and shifting alliances.
“We live in troubled times. Ukraine bleeds, the Middle East burns. Tensions have fractured the architecture of the international order built at great cost by previous generations,” he said.
According to Sir Jonah, Otumfuo’s leadership style presents a viable alternative to conflict-driven global politics. He stressed on the importance of sustained dialogue and moral authority in achieving peace.
“In this room is a man who has spent 27 years demonstrating quietly, persistently, and effectively that dialogue, patiently sustained, is stronger than any decree, and that moral authority in the service of peace can achieve what no army or court can,” he said.
“The world does not need more weapons; it needs more leaders like Otumfuo,” he said.
Asantehene,Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, with his wife, Lady Julia, Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Governor of Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiamah and Olu of Warri ,Ogiama Atuwatse were among dignitaries at the gala.
The event was held at Jubilee Hall at the Manhyia Palace and brought together political, traditional, religious, and business leaders. It was organised by the Diaspora Affairs Office in partnership with E ON 3 Group.
Held under the theme “Advancing Peace and Sustainable Economic Development Through Royal Vision,” the gala forms part of activities marking the 27th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s enstoolment.
Organisers said the Asantehene’s reign has significantly contributed to peacebuilding, national cohesion, and economic development in Ghana and beyond.
Former Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, attended the event as Special Guest of Honour, underscoring the growing international recognition of the Asantehene’s role in promoting peace.
By Benjamin Aidoo
