Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey has refuted claims that she directed the arrest of the Kwahu Queen Mother, Nana Adwoa Gyemtua III.
Her response follows a story aired by Agoo 96.9 FM, in which a chief identified as Nana Nilm Sarpong, Abene Bamuhene, alleged that the Minister had confirmed approving the arrest. The Minister says the report is inaccurate and distorts the facts.
A statement issued on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, described the allegations as false, stressing that she had no role in the detention of the traditional leader.
She clarified that a delegation of Kwahu chiefs visited her at the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council on December 1 to update her on developments after the Queen Mother’s arrest and to follow up on a directive from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), C.O.P. Christian Tetteh Yohuno.
According to the Minister, the chiefs informed her that the IGP had already apologised to them and initiated investigations into the actions of the police officers involved.
She indicated that she also apologised to the chiefs—not because she instructed the arrest—but in her capacity as Regional Minister and chairperson of the Regional Security Council.
“At no point did I state that I ordered the arrest of the Queen Mother,” she said. “I only accepted responsibility as the head of the regional security structure, just as the IGP did regarding the conduct of his personnel.”
Madam Awatey expressed disappointment over what she called an attempt to damage her reputation with misleading information. She reiterated that the Regional Security Council remains neutral and is committed to maintaining peace in the area.
“I urge the public to ignore these claims and allow the appropriate processes to continue,” she added.
The Minister assured traditional leaders and residents that her outfit will collaborate with all parties to resolve tensions and ensure stability in the Eastern Region.