Tension Mounts in Denkyira Traditional Area Ahead of Paramount Chief Installation

A controversy is brewing in the Denkyira Traditional Area of the Central Region, where a new Paramount Chief is set to be installed despite opposition from the Agona royal family.

The Queenmother, Nana Ama Ayensua Sara III, has announced that the installation of Oscar Kesse, also known as Kwame Mensah, will proceed on October 20, 2025, at Jukwa, the traditional capital of Denkyira, despite a pending injunction from the House of Chiefs.

The paramount stool of Denkyira Traditional Area became vacant in 2015 following the death of Odeefuo Boa Amponsem III. According to tradition, a qualified royal from the Agona Family is selected and enstooled as the paramount chief.

However, the Agona Royal Family has petitioned the Central Regional House of Chiefs, challenging the legitimacy of Oscar Kesse, also known as Kwame Mensah, who has been nominated and announced as the next Denkyirahene.

The petition, filed by Abusuapanyin Precious Kwame Mensah, Sampson Delali Mensah, and Alice Afia Mensah, argues that Oscar Kesse is not a member of the Agona royal family and is not entitled to be nominated and enstooled as chief of Denkyira.

The petitioners claim that Kwame Mensah and the Queenmother, who are niece and nephew of the immediate past paramount chief, are Fantis belonging to the Asona clan of Cape Coast, which traditionally has no claim to the Denkyira stool.

The petitioners accuse the Queenmother of unilaterally nominating Kwame Mensah despite his alleged ineligibility and failure to appear before a vetting committee. They also claim that the principal kingmakers of Denkyira were excluded from the selection process, violating long-standing customs and traditions.

Despite a pending injunction from the House of Chiefs, the Queenmother has announced that the installation ceremony will proceed on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Jukwa, the traditional capital of Denkyira. The situation remains volatile, with both factions allegedly mobilizing supporters ahead of the ceremony. Community members have petitioned the Inspector General of Police, National Security, and the National Intelligence Bureau to intervene and prevent possible violence.

Security analysts and local opinion leaders warn that the escalating tension could lead to loss of lives and destruction of property if swift action is not taken by the authorities. The Denkyira Traditional Area is bracing for a potentially volatile situation, with many residents fearing for their safety and well-being.