Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Demystifies Freemasonry

By: Isaac Boamah-Darko @BoamahI

For centuries, Freemasonry has been shrouded in secrecy and mystery, captivating the imagination of many. Recently, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, spoke publicly about his 25-year journey in Freemasonry, expressing satisfaction and no regrets about his membership. This revelation has sparked interest and raised questions about the organization.

In Ghana, Freemasonry was once viewed with suspicion, with many people believing it to be a devilish society that engaged in human sacrifice and money rituals. However, in recent times, the organization has become more attractive and open, with many notable figures, including politicians and traditional leaders, openly declaring their membership.

The Asantehene’s 25-year journey in Freemasonry is a testament to the organization’s positive impact. Despite initial uncertainties, he has found the experience rewarding and has committed to making Freemasonry beneficial to Ghana and its citizens, promoting peace and truthfulness.

Freemasonry has a rich history, tracing its roots back to medieval Europe. The first recorded Grand Lodge was established in London in 1717, and the fraternity spread rapidly, reaching Africa and Ghana in the 18th century. The Gold Coast Lodge, established in 1835, was the first Masonic lodge in Ghana.

Notable figures such as Nana Ofori Atta I, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia, and Dr. J.B. Danquah have been members of the Freemasons, with some attributing their political success to the fraternity’s influence.

While Freemasonry has been accused of elitism and exclusivity, it emphasizes the importance of brotherly love, relief, and truth. Members develop valuable skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving, and the organization provides a platform for community service and charitable work.

However, Freemasonry is not immune to criticism and controversy. Some members have been linked to corruption and unethical practices, and the fraternity’s secrecy has fueled conspiracy theories and mistrust.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s 25-year journey in Freemasonry demystifies the organization, showing that it is a complex and multifaceted fraternity with a rich history and diverse experiences. By separating fact from fiction and acknowledging both the good and the bad, we can gain a deeper understanding of this enigmatic organization.

The Metro Lens newspaper will continue to delve deeper into the world of Freemasonry, exploring its history, evolution, and experiences of notable members, as well as its benefits and drawbacks. Stay tuned for more insights into this fascinating organization.

For centuries, the enigmatic world of Freemasonry has captivated the imagination of many, shrouded in secrecy and mystery. From its humble beginnings to its current global presence, Freemasonry has been a subject of fascination, with its fair share of myths, truths, and misconceptions. In this article, we delve into the history of Freemasonry, its evolution in Ghana and Africa, and the experiences of some notable Grandmasters and Worshipful figures. We also explore the benefits and wealth associated with Freemasonry, as well as its darker aspects.

History and Evolution

Freemasonry traces its roots back to the stonemasons’ guilds of medieval Europe, with the first recorded Grand Lodge established in London in 1717. The fraternity spread rapidly, reaching the shores of Africa and Ghana in the 18th century. The Gold Coast Lodge, established in 1835, was the first Masonic lodge in Ghana, with the United Grand Lodge of England granting its charter.

Notable Grandmasters and Worshipful Figures

• Nana Ofori Atta I, the paramount chief of Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area, Ghanaian traditional ruler and Freemason, played a significant role in the development of Freemasonry in Ghana.
• Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President, was a member of the Freemasons, with some attributing his political success to the fraternity’s influence.
• Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia, a former Ghanaian Prime Minister, was also a member of the Freemasons.
• Otumfuo Osei Tutu II – The Asantehene (King of the Ashanti) and Grand Patron of the Grand Lodge of Ghana.
• Dr. J.B. Danquah – A founding father of Ghana and a leading figure in the country’s independence movement.
• General Ignatius Kutu Acheampong – A former Head of State of Ghana.
• Dr. Alex Quaison-Sackey – A former Secretary-General of the African Affairs
• Secretariat.
• Nana Kofi Abuna V – A traditional ruler and Freemason.
• Dr. Charles Wereko-Brobby – A renowned engineer and politician.
• Major General Richard Kofi Amoako – A former Chief of the Defence Staff.

Myths and Truths

• Myth: Freemasonry is a secret society plotting world domination.
• Truth: Freemasonry is a fraternal organization focused on personal development, charity, and community service.
• Myth: Freemasonry is a religious organization.
• Truth: Freemasonry is a non-denominational organization open to individuals of all faiths.

Lessons and Benefits

• Freemasonry emphasizes the importance of brotherly love, relief, and truth.
• Members develop valuable skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving.
• Freemasonry provides a platform for community service and charitable work.

The Bad, the Hood, and the Ugly

• Critics accuse Freemasonry of elitism and exclusivity.
• Some members have been linked to corruption and unethical practices.
• The fraternity’s secrecy has fueled conspiracy theories and mistrust.

Disadvantages and Wealth

• Membership requirements can be stringent, limiting access to the fraternity.
• Some members prioritize personal gain over the fraternity’s principles.
• Freemasonry’s wealth and influence can lead to abuse of power and corruption.

In conclusion, Freemasonry is a complex and multifaceted organization with a rich history and diverse experiences. While it offers valuable lessons and benefits, it is not immune to criticism and controversy. By separating fact from fiction and acknowledging both the good and the bad, we can gain a deeper understanding of this enigmatic fraternity.