I have recently been listening to the counsels of Otumfo and his words have reminded me of the power and spirit of words. Through his words I now have deeper meaning of what Jesus said about the power of spirit of words from unusual people.
Otumfuo’s words carry ancestral weight. They are not political gambits, but steady truths born of experience and cultural stewardship. In Ghanaian tradition, the counsel of a king—especially one as revered as the Asantehene—is not easily dismissed without consequence. Over the years, those who’ve heeded his voice have often reaped stability and honor. Those who haven’t have, more often than not, collided with harsh political or social realities.
In John 6:63, Jesus said, “The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.” This wasn’t just poetic language. Jesus was pointing to something deeper: His teachings weren’t merely sound advice or intellectual ideas—they carried divine essence. His words had the power to awaken, heal, guide and transform. They still do.
To those who listened with open hearts, His words stirred hope and stirred dead things back to life—whether it was broken faith, worn-down dignity, or the silent ache of loneliness. Even today, those same words remain like seeds—when planted in the soul, they don’t just inform, they give life. Can we now look at few words of Otumfo and be serious to them? Yes, we must.
In a time when political rhetoric often drowns out reason and ambition outweigh integrity, the voice of wisdom is more needed than ever. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene and revered custodian of Ghana’s tradition, stands not merely as a cultural figurehead—but as a moral compass for a nation drifting from its values. Anything he sees that the country is not thriving on the right path, he does not fail to offer his wisdom. His counsel transcends partisanship; it is rooted in life principles that seek the flourishing of Ghana and the dignity of her people. Every word of him is pinned to the service and welfare of the people. This makes him an ethical leader. Yet time and again, his wisdom has been ignored—to the detriment of both leadership and citizenry.
Otumfuo’s messages have never been political endorsements. They are reminders of our shared heritage, our civic duty, and the timeless truth that leadership is a sacred trust, not a personal entitlement. Ghana is not led by politicians alone; it is built, shaped, and sustained by traditional leaders whose voices echo the conscience of generations past and hopes of generations yet to come.
Let us conder some of the key counsels Otumfuo has offered to political figures, words of guidance that, when taken seriously, can restore dignity to public service and harmony to our democratic process:
Put the People First, Not Politics. Otumfuo advised President Nana Akufo-Addo to prioritize the well-being of Ghanaians over political ambition. Leadership, he emphasized, must serve lives—not legacies. Ignoring this wisdom erodes trust and disconnects governance from those it is meant to uplift.
Avoid Arrogance in Leadership. He cautioned Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh against arrogance, reminding all leaders that humility is the root of genuine authority. Arrogance blinds leaders to reality, silences feedback and isolates them from the people they serve.
Choose Leaders the Nation Can Trust. Urging the NPP to select a presidential candidate not based on internal loyalty, but on national credibility, Otumfuo called for a return to values. Ghana needs trustworthy leadership—not figureheads of a party machine.
Respect Traditional Institutions. Otumfuo has consistently reminded political leaders that traditional authority is not ornamental—it is foundational. Disregard for these institutions weakens the social fabric and distances leaders from the heart of the communities they serve.
Serve with Accountability. He has spoken clearly against corruption, calling for transparent stewardship of power and public resources. When leaders ignore this, scandals multiply—and citizens lose faith in democracy itself.
When Otumfuo Osei Tutu II advised John Mahama to accept the role of Vice President under the late President John Evans Atta Mills, it wasn’t just a suggestion—it was guidance rooted in foresight, humility and wisdom. Mahama listened, and it opened the door for him to eventually ascend to the highest office in the land.
As the proverb goes, “the ear that listens to advice sleeps in peace.” Wisdom, when offered and embraced, preserves destinies. Wisdom, when rejected, waits patiently at the intersection of ambition and consequence. So let us not casually dismiss the wisdom of Otumfuo that has power to hold leaders, heal communities, and offer clarity in moments of national confusion. Otumfuo’s counsels are spirit—life-giving truths whispered through centuries. To honor them is to honor Ghana. To ignore them is to risk losing Ghana’s soul.
To Preserve National Unity. Otumfuo has warned that tribalism and political division are cancers to national peace. Ghana’s strength lies in her unity—leaders must rise above rhetoric that divides and embrace their role as bridge-builders.
To Listen to the Voice of the People. Otumfuo calls for listening as a tool for true leaders—not only during campaigns, but throughout governance. When citizens are silenced or ignored, hope fades and civic participation dies.
Let us know that Otumfuo’s counsels are not just advice. They stand legacy, rooted in wisdom that predates our republic and speak to our deepest values. His voice calls Ghana back to its soul. When leaders dismiss such counsel, the cost is more than political—it is generational. But when they embrace it, they lead not just in office, but in history. Because to lead with humility, serve with honesty and unite with courage is to lead Ghana forward. And that is the legacy Ghanaians truly deserve. As Otumfuo speaks about integrity in leadership, he highlights that everyone lives to write his or her own history, but to him, we are to write good history.
Otumfuo’s moral leadership teaches lessons that true power lies not in authority, but in accountability; not in position, but in purpose.
His wisdom doesn’t echo just for this political cycle—it echoes across time. Because in his view, leadership is not a chapter—it’s a legacy. And as so powerfully put it: “we are charged to write our own good history.”
When leaders act with humility, honesty and unity, they inscribe their names not just on paper, but in the hearts of the people.
By
Gaddiel R. Ackah
[email protected]
U.S. Navy veteran. Lives in U.S.A.
Social Advocate for economic independence, spiritual growth and ethical leadership. His work spans education, business, spirituality, leadership, politics, personal development, national transformation, character development, challenges facing Ghana’s political landscape and creative arts, making him a multifaceted influencer.
Author of Many Leadership and Inspiring books.
Competent Leadership: Becoming Successful Our Happiness. Some Choices Matter Respect Matters Faith Wipes Tears The Power of Faith
