Awutu Omanhene dies after short illness, Traditional Council begins succession process
The Omanhene of the Awutu Traditional Council in the Central Region, Nai Abokuade Agyeman Wyettey Otabil III, has died after a short illness.
The death of the paramount chief was officially announced by the Awutu Traditional Council at a press conference attended by traditional leaders and members of the community.
Addressing the media, the Queen Mother of the Awutu Traditional Council, Naakye Dode Akaabi XIV, described the late Omanhene as a father, leader and unifier who dedicated his life to the development of the Awutu State.
“We have lost a father, a leader, and a unifier. We urge all citizens and residents of Awutu to remain calm. The Traditional Council will follow due process in appointing a successor worthy of his legacy,” she said.
Following the announcement, the Traditional Council performed the necessary customary rites in accordance with Awutu tradition.
Flags at the Awutu palace and across the traditional area have been lowered to half-mast as the community enters a period of mourning.
Naakye Dode Akaabi XIV further announced that the Gyasehene has been appointed to act as caretaker of the traditional area until a new Omanhene is selected and installed.
Meanwhile, some divisional chiefs have called for unity among members of the Traditional Council and the royal family to ensure a smooth succession process and avoid disputes before, during and after the burial of the late chief and the installation of his successor.
The Acting Omanhene of the Awutu Traditional Council, Nai Kojo Ahene, pledged to work closely with the Dode Royal Family and other stakeholders to ensure the successful selection and installation of a new paramount chief.
He expressed confidence that the next Omanhene would continue the developmental agenda of the late Nai Abokuade Agyeman Wyettey Otabil III and help advance the progress of the Awutu State.
The Traditional Council is expected to announce further details regarding funeral arrangements and the succession process in the coming weeks.
Source: Kofi Adjei/Adomonline
