The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, referenced Kofi Kinaata’s 2017 hit song “Susuka” during his speech at a dinner with the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) on Monday 9th September 2024.
The Asantehene used the song to emphasize the importance of appreciating Ghana’s judicial system, while calling on Ghanaians to support its improvement instead of denigrating it.
“Susuka,” a song that conveys valuable lessons about self-worth and wisdom, was mentioned by the Asantehene as he urged the public, including political leaders, journalists, social commentators, and civil society advocates, to reflect deeply before criticizing the judicial system.
Otumfuo noted that Ghana’s judiciary, though not perfect, has earned the admiration of many countries.
“My earnest plea to the people of Ghana, especially our political leaders, journalists, social commentators, and civil society advocates, is to think deeply before denigrating the system. We have a judiciary that may not be perfect, but it deserves credit for the positive efforts. I can think of many countries which look at Ghana and concede: Yɛ renya mo ayɛ (You are doing something right). Sometimes, listen to the wisdom of our musicians and reflect on a piece like Kofi Kinaata’s ‘Obi renya wo ayɛ’ (Some wish they were in your place). Or listen to what my minstrels are saying: ‘Obi nya saa bi anka obɛyɛ bi’ (If someone else had the opportunity, they would also do it),” the Asantehene remarked.
Otumfuo praised the ongoing efforts within the judiciary to enhance its capacity to deliver justice impartially. He urged the nation to focus on the positive strides being made and give the judiciary the necessary support to continue improving.
“The evidence I see from the Judiciary service is that no stone is being left unturned to enhance its capacity to deliver justice without fear or favour, affection or ill will. Let us try to accentuate the positive and give the noble men and women we have ennobled in the Judiciary the space and the impetus to stand up and be counted,” he advised.
Kofi Kinaata, known for his thoughtful lyrics and socially conscious music, has earned recognition in academic circles. His song “Things Fall Apart” was featured in an exam at the University of Ghana in 2019 and was approved for academic study at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 2022.
Otumfuo’s reference to “Susuka” highlights the impact of music in shaping societal values and fostering national unity.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
