Otumfuo crushes bid to incorporate queenmothers in House of Chiefs conferences

Introduction

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has crushed a growing movement to formally include queenmothers in the deliberations of the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs. During the 2025 Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs assembly held on Friday, December 19, 2025, the King warned that any attempt to amend the Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759) to create a “Chamber of Queenmothers” would be a dangerous overreach that threatens the authenticity of Asante customary governance.

Why this matters to readers

For journalists, scholars, and policy‑makers, the episode illustrates the tension between modern calls for gender equity and deep‑rooted chieftaincy traditions in Ghana. It also raises questions about the constitutional relationship between customary law and the 1992 Constitution, especially in light of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024 (Act 1121) which mandates a 30 % female quota in decision‑making bodies.

Key Points

Background

1. The role of queenmothers in Asante customary law

In the matrilineal social structure of the Asante Kingdom, queenmothers (locally called Ohemaa) are regarded as the “mothers of the stool”. Their responsibilities include:

• Advising the Asantehene on matters of lineage, succession, and communal welfare.
• Possessing a veto that can block the enstoolment of a chief who is deemed unsuitable.
• Overseeing certain rituals that reinforce the spiritual legitimacy of the chieftaincy institution.

Unlike the stool which is openly displayed and spoken for by the chief, the queenmother’s counsel is traditionally confidential, conducted in private chambers.

2. Legislative context: Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759)

The Chieftaincy Act, 2008 provides the legal framework for the operation of National and Regional Houses of Chiefs. Section 4 of the Act currently limits membership of these bodies to male chiefs, though it acknowledges the advisory role of queenmothers without granting them formal voting rights.

Amendments proposed in late 2024 sought to insert a dedicated “Chamber of Queenmothers” that would grant queenmothers seats and voting power in the official proceedings of the Houses.

3. The gender‑equity legislative push

The Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024 (Act 1121) mandates a minimum of 30 % female representation in all public decision‑making bodies, including traditional councils. Advocacy groups argue that the existing chieftaincy structure is an excluded arena where gender disparity persists.

4. Stakeholder positions

Key stakeholders include:

• Otumfuo Osei Tutu II – Asantehene, staunch defender of traditional confidentiality.
• Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II – President of the National House of Chiefs, proponent of legislative amendment.
• Nana Otubea II – President of the All Regions Queenmothers Association, champion of public representation.
• Legal scholars from the University of Ghana Faculty of Law – Analysts of potential constitutional ramifications.

Analysis

1. Cultural legitimacy vs. statutory reform

The Asantehene’s rejection underscores a fundamental principle of customary law: “no one should create rules that bind everyone”. By insisting that queenmothers continue to advise behind closed doors, Otumfuo preserves the sanctity of a tradition that has persisted for centuries. Reform advocates, however, contend that the public nature of governance demands transparency, especially when public funds and policy decisions are involved.

2. Potential constitutional conflict

Article 270 of the 1992 Constitution recognises the chiefs and traditional authorities as part of Ghana’s governance architecture. Any statutory amendment that alters the composition of the Houses of Chiefs must align with this constitutional provision. Legal commentators suggest that forcing a Chamber of Queenmothers could be interpreted as an impermissible encroachment on the Constitutionally protected chieftaincy system, potentially leading to a judicial review.

3. Political ramifications for the Ashanti Region

The Ashanti Region wields considerable influence in national politics, often acting as a kingmaker in parliamentary elections. A move perceived as disrespectful to Asante customs could galvanise traditional protest movements, mobilise civil society groups, and create a regional backlash that may affect the ruling party’s electoral fortunes.

4. Gender equity considerations

From a gender‑equity perspective, the Affirmative Action Act provides a strong normative argument for inclusion. Yet, the method of inclusion matters. Imposing a legislative quota without cultural consultation risks tokenism and may undermine the very empowerment the law seeks to achieve. A negotiated, culturally sensitive pathway—perhaps beginning with advisory, non‑voting seats—could bridge the divide.

5. Media and public perception

SEO‑focused coverage, such as this article, plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. By highlighting keywords like Otumfuo, House of Chiefs, queenmothers, and gender fairness, content creators can ensure that the conversation reaches policymakers, academia, and the general public alike.

Practical Advice

For policymakers

1. Engage traditional leaders early: Any amendment to the Chieftaincy Act should be preceded by extensive consultations with the Asantehene and other regional chiefs.

2. Consider phased inclusion: Pilot programs that grant queenmothers advisory roles in specific committees can test the impact before full legislative integration.

3. Align with constitutional safeguards: Draft amendments that explicitly reference Article 270 to avoid legal challenges.

For journalists and content creators

1. Use precise, searchable terminology: Incorporate primary keywords (“Otumfuo”, “House of Chiefs”, “queenmothers”) naturally within headings and early paragraphs.

2. Maintain factual accuracy: Cite verifiable sources such as the text of Act 759, the 2024 Gender Equity Act, and statements from official spokespersons.

3. Provide balanced perspectives: Present both the cultural arguments for confidentiality and the gender‑equity rationale for public participation.

For scholars and researchers

1. Conduct comparative studies: Examine how other African chiefdoms have integrated female elders into formal councils.

2. Explore interdisciplinary angles: Combine legal analysis with anthropology to assess the socio‑cultural impact of potential reforms.

3. Document outcomes: If reforms are enacted, track changes in decision‑making efficacy, public trust, and gender representation metrics.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Otumfuo‑led rejection of a Chamber of Queenmothers illustrates the delicate balance between preserving customary heritage and responding to modern demands for gender equity. While the Asantehene’s stance protects the sanctity of confidential advisory roles, the broader national conversation—fuelled by the Affirmative Action Act and evolving constitutional