Manhyia Palace has rejected Afia Pokua’s apology after hours of pleading. Despite efforts from a faction of elders supporting her, the Otumfuo’s representative remained firm in the decision to turn her away, forbidding her from ever returning to the palace.
The controversy stems from when Afia Pokua, a journalist with Agoo TV, criticised the Asantehene for his perceived silence regarding ongoing conflicts between the Ashantis and other tribes, including the Bonos.
Her remarks, made during Mona Gucci’s show Bribi Gye Gye Wo on Onua FM, also expressed frustration over what she described as Ashanti superiority over other tribes and the Asantehene’s inaction.
Her comments sparked widespread outrage among the Ashantis, with sub-chiefs, queen mothers, and Ashanti youth publicly denouncing her words. Protests were held, and a press conference was organised by the youth to address the situation.
At Manhyia today, an elder made an emotional appeal on her behalf, highlighting that Pokua had been on her knees since her arrival and had delivered a heartfelt apology.
Nonetheless, the Otumfuo’s representative was unwavering, explaining that in such matters, apologies are not always enough.
He stressed that some offences require the individual to bear the consequences of their actions, and Pokua’s situation was one such case.
“Who do you think you are to disrespect the Otumfuo? If you think you’ve grown wings, don’t aim them at Kumasi. You claim to be from Kwahu, yet even they separated from the Ashanti Kingdom. They speak our language,” he remarked sternly.
“Take your cursed self and your troubles with you. Whatever comes your way in the future, deal with it on your own. Do not ever return here,” he concluded, closing the case.
Following this, Afia Pokua, Mona Gucci, and their delegation left Manhyia Palace.