National Security Ends Closed-Door Meeting With Otumfuo

A delegation from National Security has concluded closed-door meeting with the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to resolve the impasse between the chiefs of Tuobodom and Techiman. The delegation, led by National Security Advisor Brigadier-General General Nunoo Mensah went to the palace following threats by the Asantehene to arrest the chief of Techiman if government does not intervene in the stalemate. Although the full outcome of the meeting has yet to be disclosed, Brigadier-General Nunoo Mensah said the interaction was fruitful. Several irate youth are said to have stormed the Manhyia Palace in support of their king. The Asantehene Otumfou Osei Tutu II expects President Mills to intervene in the dispute between the two chiefs. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has called for the dismissal of the Brong Ahafo Regional Police Commander for failing to arrest the Techiman chief who kidnapped the Tuobodom chief two weeks ago. Bodyguards of the Techiman chief Oseadeeyo Akumfi Ameyaw allegedly kidnapped the Tuobodom chief who owes allegiance to the golden stool. Although the police later took custody of the Tuobodom chief, the Asantehene is angry that the kidnappers have not been arrested or questioned. The Asantehene says the Techiman chief is using his links with the NDC government to perpetuate crime in his area. At an earlier meeting at the Manhyia palace on Monday, the Otumfuo warned he would have the Techiman chief kidnapped if he steps foot in Kumasi in retaliation for the treatment metered out to the chief of Tuobodom. His spokesperson, Oheneba Adusei Poku says government must intervene. Meanwhile government has given the strongest indication that it will do its best possible to ensure calm is restored. Deputy Information Minister Okudzeto Ablakwa told Joy News on Tuesday government has already started the process to restore peace and harmony. He urged the media to avoid over-sensationalizing the developments, adding, that �everything is under control.� The several scores of youth who had besieged the Manhyia Palace at the time of the meeting told Nhyira FM what they would do on Wednesday. The youth have threatened to stop all vehicles from entering Kumasi from Techiman. They would also prevent vehicular movements from Kumasi to Techiman. Although National Security as well as government officials have met with the Asantehene to resolve the stalemate, there is still simmering tension in Manhyia as supporters of the Asante king chant war songs, correspondents say.