Michael presenting the symbol of authority to Nana Mensah Asare
The timely intervention of the Kumasi Traditional Council (KTC), headed by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, yesterday helped the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) to elect a new Presiding Member (PM).
The KTC tactically dropped three of the chiefs who were representing it in the assembly and replaced them with three new chiefs, one of who was eventually elected the new PM.
Nana Adu Mensah Asare, the Amakomhene, who stood for the top position unopposed, polled 100 ‘Yes’ votes, with only 22 members voting ‘No’ and one vote rejected.
Prior to the chief’s election, the KMA had failed to elect a PM in nine elections, which took place during seven meetings for the past one-year.
Abraham Boadi aka Opooman, Assemblyman for Ridge/Nhyiaeso and Dadiesoaba Assemblyman, Michael Adusei, who both failed to win the position during the last meeting, stepped down.
There was wild jubilation all over the venue when it emerged that the Amakomhene had polled more than the 98 votes required to win the top post.
Nana Agyenim Boateng, the Amoamanhene, who is one of the representatives of the KTC, was seen in a jubilant mood.
Nana Mensah Asare, in his acceptance speech, gave the assurance that he would carry out his duties without fear or favour to ensure Kumasi’s development, calling for total support from all members.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, John Alexander Ackon, who is the acting KMA Chief Executive, said the House needs to unite as one body with a common destiny – now that a PM had been elected.
Michael Ataogye, KMA Coordinating Director, urged members to forget about their troubled past and lead Kumasi to the Promised Land in unity.
From I.F. Joe Awuah Jnr., Kumasi