The Sunyani Traditional Area has become a hotspot of contention as Queenmother Nana Akosua Dua Asor Sika Brayie II filed an interlocutory injunction to restrain Yaw Agyare from presenting himself as the Sunyanimanhene. The legal action highlights procedural and customary violations in the purported enstoolment of Yaw Agyare by the Akwamuhene, Nana Kwaku Sarbeng Ababio II.
The Core of the Dispute
The queenmother argues that:
- Customary Breach: Nana Sarbeng, as the Akwamuhene, lacks the capacity to nominate or install a candidate for the paramount stool.
- Improper Procedure: Yaw Agyare’s installation under a tree at the old palace violated both customary practices and the guidelines stipulated in LI 1972 (2010), which governs the enstoolment process in the Sunyani Traditional Area.
- Usurpation of Role: The queenmother maintains that, by custom, she has the sole privilege to nominate a candidate from the Boahen Korkor royal family to occupy the stool.
The queenmother’s legal counsel, Kwame Twumasi-Awuah, filed the injunction on Friday, January 10, 2025, seeking to invalidate Yaw Agyare’s installation and prevent him from styling himself as Sunyanimanhene.
Emerging Complications
The Sunyani stool dispute has been further complicated by the installation of two rival chiefs on January 6, 2025. 
- Yaw Agyare: Installed as Odeefuor Ogyeamansan Boahen Korkor II by one faction under the leadership of Nana Sarbeng.
- Adom Manu: Installed as Nana Yaw Twene Amanfo II by another faction later that evening.
Reports indicate that a third faction is also preparing to enstool its candidate, intensifying the succession battle.
Customary and Legal Concerns
The queenmother contends that:
- Customary Selection Process: All seven eligible candidates had presented their drinks and undergone background checks. However, the Akwamuhene allegedly bypassed her authority to install Yaw Agyare.
- Invalid Installation: The installation ceremony, performed under a tree, violated established procedures outlined in the Legislative Instrument, rendering it null and void.
The queenmother emphasized that allowing an invalidly installed chief to assume the role could harm the dignity and sanctity of the paramount stool.
Regional Tension and Security Concerns
The rivalry between factions has heightened tensions in Sunyani and its environs, causing fear among residents and business owners. Stakeholders have appealed for swift intervention to prevent potential unrest.
The Bono Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has stepped in to mediate, suspending planned press conferences by the rival factions.
Implications for the Sunyani Traditional Area
The prolonged dispute over the paramount stool threatens the peace, unity, and economic stability of the Sunyani Traditional Area. Key concerns include:
- Governance Vacuum: A lack of clear leadership could disrupt the administration of traditional affairs.
- Community Division: Rival factions could deepen divisions within the community, leading to long-term instability.
- Customary Integrity: The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how succession disputes are handled in the future.
Call for Resolution
Stakeholders, including traditional leaders and government authorities, must prioritize dialogue and respect for customary practices to resolve the impasse. Restoring unity and upholding the sanctity of the Sunyani stool is critical for the community’s stability and progress.
