A farming community, Mpasaaso No. 2 in the Ahafo Ano South-West District of the Ashanti Region has recently made headlines following the destoolment of its chief, Nana Ampofo Twumasi, by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
The traditional ruler was removed from office over misconduct, including the illegal sale of lands to miners.
After his destoolment, Otumfuo handed the administration of the town to the Queen Mother and tasked the Akwamuhene, Nana Agyei Mensah Sikapa, to support her in restoring the community’s lost glory.
However, the Queen Mother, who is currently abroad, entrusted the community’s management to the Akwamuhene in her absence.
Unfortunately, residents say the Akwamuhene has since deviated from his mandate, neglecting the town’s development and engaging in alleged embezzlement of community funds.
This situation has prompted the youth, led by Mr. Kwadwo Asare, to take matters into their own hands to bring progress to the town.
Mining activities are ongoing in Mpasaaso No. 2, yet the community has not benefited significantly from the social corporate responsibilities of these mining firms.
In response, Mr. Asare and his team have directly engaged the mining companies, who have since donated funds for community development.
“Since our leaders are not doing anything for the community, we decided to approach the miners ourselves. Thankfully, they listened to us and have supported us with funds,” Mr. Asare said.
“We are using the money to build schools, boreholes, and refurbish the Police Station. My only crime was not agreeing with the Akwamuhene to misuse the money.”
This initiative, however, has led to tensions between the youth and the Akwamuhene, who has reportedly declared Mr. Asare wanted, alleging his involvement in illegal mining.
Responding to this claim, Mr. Asare stated, “I am not into galamsey. I am in the community, so if they believe I’m wanted, they should come and arrest me. All I have done is to use the money for the benefit of the people.”
Kofi Asare Breko, the Unit Committee Chairman for Mpasaaso No. 2, has thrown his weight behind the youth leader.
“The community, together with the Assemblyman, is solidly behind Kwadwo Asare. Through him, our Police Station and schools are gradually taking shape,” he noted.
“The Akwamuhene has been mismanaging community funds, but now he has lost that opportunity, and that’s why he’s fighting back.”
As the community continues to grapple with its leadership challenges, the youth-led development drive stands as a beacon of hope for residents seeking progress in Mpasaaso No.2.
