Black Rastas believe that despite the Asantehene being a member of the fraternity, the Asantehene should wear traditional dress and protect the reputation of the kingdom while allowing other members to wear Freemason garb.
He advised Otumfuo’s aides not to wear Masonic suits or non-traditional attire in public.
“Why should you wear a suit, let alone a Freemason suit? I’m not kidding when I say you are the King of the Ashanti Kingdom. Freemasonry is a powerful and ancient organization. Do we know what it means to say that you wear a Freemason suit? I think this is shameful. As a Pan-Africanist, as a man who loves the culture of my great ancestors, I am not happy about this.” Black Rasta said on 3FM’s Urban Blend show.
He continued, “I think Ashanti people should talk to Otumfuo about this. I don’t have much of a problem with you wearing Kente and riding in a palanquin. Let other Freemasons wear Masonic attire.”
Black Rasta’s comments came after he revealed that the Asantehene had been a Freemason for 25 years, coinciding with his tenure in the Golden Chair. On May 25, 2024, Freemasons in Ghana, West Africa and other parts of the world came together to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo’s inauguration as the Asantehene.
The gathering was a tribute to the monarch, known in Grand Lodge as Most Worshipful Brother Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and marked his 25th anniversary as both an Ashantihene and a Freemason.
In his address, Patriarch Otumfuo of the Grand Lodge of Ghana reflected on his association with Freemasonry.Twenty-five years ago I joined the Freemasons. When joining any organization or club, it is natural to think about its potential benefits and limitations.,” He said.
Freemasonry is a fraternal organization with roots in stonemasons’ guilds of the 16th and 17th centuries, and was formalized with the founding of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717. It is known for its use of rituals, symbols such as the ruler and compass, and emphasis on moral and ethical teachings, charity, and fraternity. Freemasonry is not a religion, but does require faith in a Supreme Being.
But Freemasonry has faced various concerns and criticisms, with its secrecy leading to suspicion and speculation, and some religious groups criticising it as incompatible with their teachings.
There are fears of undue political influence and corruption due to ties to Freemasonry. Additionally, some theories portray Freemasonry as a shadowy organization with significant global influence. Finally, the perception that it has historically been male-dominated and lacking in diversity has also been a source of contention.
Despite these concerns, supporters say Freemasonry promotes personal growth, ethical behavior and philanthropy.
Black Rasta’s comments added to an ongoing online debate about the appropriateness of traditional leaders wearing non-traditional dress and the wider implications of their ties to organisations like the Freemasons.