By Isaac Nsiah Foster
February 26, 2025
It was all reverence and gratitude at Manhyia Palace on Wednesday, as the Paramount Chief of Buipe Traditional Council, Buipewura Abdulai Jinapor II, made a bold and rather divine declaration.
“Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is my God on earth!” he proclaimed, his voice ringing with sincerity.
The Buipewura was at Manhyia to express his heartfelt appreciation to Otumfuo for his unwavering support, which played a pivotal role in his recent election as Vice President of the National House of Chiefs—a prestigious position he secured just a few months ago.
Flanked by an entourage of high-ranking chiefs, including Jawasewura, Kunshiwura, Koliwura, Koyapewura, Mandewura, Neripewura, Chaliwura, Danyayawura, and Masheri-Ase Wuche, the Buipewura left no doubt about his deep respect for the Asantehene.
A Chief with an Asante Twi Accent?
One of the more intriguing aspects of the visit, however, was Buipewura’s flawless Asante Twi, which left many in awe.
“Ei, a Gonja chief speaking Twi better than some Ashantis?” one observer was overheard whispering in admiration.
But the reason is no mystery—Buipewura spent years in Asante Mampong as a police officer. And during that time, he wasn’t just enforcing the law; he was also laying the foundation for a political dynasty.
His long stay in Mampong saw him raise two sons who would later become household names in Ghanaian politics: Abu Jinapor, a former Lands and Natural Resources Minister under the NPP, and John Jinapor, a former and current Energy Minister under Mahama’s administrations. The kicker? The brothers are on opposite sides of the political divide—Abu with the NPP, John with the NDC.
Talk about keeping things balanced!
Manhyia, as always, remains a political and cultural melting pot, where alliances are forged, history is made, and—if you listen closely—you might just hear a Gonja chief speaking Twi like a true Asante.
