Eastern Regional Minister denies ordering arrest of Kwahu Queenmother
Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey has refuted claims that she facilitated the arrest of the Kwahu Queen Mother, Nana Adwoa Gyemtua III.
According to her, the claims are untrue and misleading.
This statement follows a report from Agoo 96.9 FM, which included a video featuring a chief, identified in the report as Nana Nilm Sarpong, Abene Bamuhene, who alleged that the Minister had confirmed authorising the arrest.
In a statement released on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the minister characterised the allegation as a “misrepresentation of facts” and an accusation based on falsehood.
She clarified that on December 1, 2025, a group of Kwahu chiefs came to the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council to update her on the actions taken following the Queen Mother’s arrest and to follow up on a referral from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), C.O.P. Christian Tetteh Yahuna.
The chiefs informed her that the IGP had expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging that the arrest was executed by police personnel and that he had ordered an investigation into the actions of the involved officers.
The Minister stressed that she also apologised to the chiefs, not because she sanctioned the arrest, but because she holds the position of Regional Minister and leads the Regional Security Council.
“Never in my submissions did I categorically say that I ordered the arrest of the Obahemaa,” she stated.
“I take responsibility not because I sanctioned it, but because I am in charge of those who were supposed to have acted better.”
She stated that her acceptance of responsibility reflects the stance taken by the IGP, who, as per the chiefs, expressed regret for the misconduct of his staff.
While voicing her concern over what she termed an unfortunate distortion of facts, the Minister underscored that the Regional Security Council remains dedicated to maintaining peace and security in the region.
“We do not associate with any of the disputing parties,” she stressed.
“I call on everyone to disregard the unfortunate reportage aimed at tarnishing my reputation and that of the Regional Security Council”.
She reiterated her commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to resolve the ongoing dispute and to ensure stability in the Eastern Region.
Find the full statement below.
