Eastern Regional Minister denies ordering arrest of Kwahu queen mother

Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey has dismissed reports suggesting she authorised the arrest of the Kwahu Queen Mother, Nana Adwoa Gyemfua III, describing the claim as entirely unfounded.

Local station Agoo 96.9 FM had broadcast a report quoting a chief, Nana Nim Sarpong (Abene Bamuhene), who alleged that the Minister had confirmed sanctioning the arrest. The Minister has, however, insisted the narrative is a distortion.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Ms Awatey said the account circulating in the media was “a misrepresentation of the facts” and accused those spreading it of peddling falsehoods.

The Minister explained that on December 1, a group of Kwahu chiefs visited her to update her on the police operation and the Inspector-General of Police’s apology following the incident.

She said her apology to the traditional leaders had been interpreted wrongly.

“I never at any point said I ordered the arrest of the Obahemaa,” the Minister stressed.

According to her, she expressed regret over the situation because of her responsibility as the political head of the region—not because she directed the police action.

“I take responsibility not because I sanctioned the wrongdoing, but because I am in charge of those who were supposed to have acted better,” she added.

Ms Awatey urged the public to disregard the earlier reports and assured that her office remains focused on preserving stability and cohesion across the Eastern Region.