A viral video has stirred controversy in Ghana after a man identified as Mustapha allegedly insulted the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. The ordeal, which has evoked strong reactions from the public and traditional authorities alike, also reportedly led to Mustapha being assaulted
Mustapha made remarks in a video mocking a directive by
the Asantehene. The directive involved an early curfew for residents in the
Ashanti Region.
In the video, Mustapha is said to have said that “only
fools will obey and sleep early.”
The video quickly spread on social media, drawing widespread condemnation. Many saw the comments as disrespectful to the traditional and cultural authority of the Asantehene.
After the insults were made public, several people expressed
outrage. The sentiment among many is that traditional leaders like the
Asantehene hold a revered position, and disrespect toward them is taken
seriously.
That outrage turned into action: according to reports,
Mustapha was physically assaulted by unidentified individuals.
Following the backlash, Mustapha posted another video in which he appeared visibly shaken and issued a profuse apology, recanting his earlier statements.
Some reports mention that Mustapha was assaulted, but I have found no credible evidence so far confirming that Mustapha was formally arrested by police or any legal authority.
The incident highlights the strong cultural respect for traditional rulers in Ghana. When an insult is perceived, especially one directed at someone like the Asantehene, the response is swift and often severe socially if not always legally.
It also shows the power and risk of social media:
Mustapha’s video spread quickly, putting him in the public eye and prompting
both condemnation and physical retaliation.
More broadly, it raises questions about rights of free speech,
respect for authority, and how traditional authority interacts with modern laws
and norms.