Members of the Asanteman Association of Chicago and the Midwest, AACM, have reintroduced term limits to their traditional and executive leadership positions to two four-year terms. The amendments were adopted on Sunday, July 23, 2023, at a general meeting.
Before the amendments, the President doubles as the organization’s chief. The current changes, however, separate the dual role played by the president. They will now have a chief who will lead the traditional council and an executive president. Both will serve two four-year terms each, subject to re-election after the first term.
The current chief and Queenmother, Nana Addae Baffour and Ohemaa Abena Amponsah, were first elected on November 20, 2005, and have served the Asanteman Association and the Ghanaian community in Chicago with excellence. An exciting cultural ceremony held at the flamboyant Grand Ballroom, 6351 S. Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, witnessed the coronation of Nana Addai Baffour, Ohemaa Abena Amponsah, and 15 Sub-Chiefs on May 24 and 25, 2008. They swore before the Tepahene, Nana Adusei Antwenewa Ampem I, who represented the Asantehene, Nana Osei Tutu II.
The Asanteman Association is one of the most vibrant and visible Ghanaian Associations in the Chicago area. The Association has been one of the trailblazers regarding the exposition of the rich Ghanaian culture in our community. Progressive action such as this may lead to other organizations following their lead. Under the leadership of Nana Addae Baffour and Ohemaa Abena Amponsah, the organization instituted Kente Dance to fund its non-profit activities. They adopted the A2 Maternity Ward at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. After renovating the dilapidated ward, they donated medical equipment and supplies to bring it to modern standards.
An enthusiastic elder of the Association said, “This creates an opportunity for Asanteman youth in the community to join and be included in the organization’s traditional and executive leadership roles. I, therefore, call on all Asantes in Chicago and the Midwest to rise to the occasion and join the organization”.
Sources from the Asanteman Association confirmed that the current chief, Nana Addae Baffour, will not seek any elected position in the next elections.
Source: Kwame Osei
Omg!!!!! I duff my hat to the leadership of our great organization . Nana and Ohemaa , God bless you . If people know when to transition and allow another person to infuse new energy , we shall all be happier .