The Asawase Zongo Community, under the leadership of the Sarkin Zango Palace in Kumasi, has issued a passionate appeal for peace and restraint following the shocking assassination of the Kusasi Chief of the Ashanti Region, Chief Abdul-Malik Azenbe. The incident, which occurred on the night of Tuesday, 22nd July 2025, in Asawase, has sent waves of grief and concern throughout the Zongo communities and beyond.
In a public statement released on Wednesday, 23rd July 2025, the Asawase Zongo Chief, Alhaji Shaibu Suleiman M. B., expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss and condemned the heinous act in the strongest possible terms. The statement conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the Kusasi community, and all affected individuals, while praying for Allah’s mercy upon the departed soul and strength for the grieving.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the Kusasi community, and all residents of Zongo and beyond affected by this painful incident. We pray that Almighty Allah grants mercy to the departed soul and bestows comfort and strength upon his family and community in this time of grief,” the statement read.
In light of the tense atmosphere that has followed the killing, the Asawase Zongo leadership has called on residents to remain calm and law-abiding. The Chief urged community members to give the Ghana Police Service and other relevant security agencies the needed space to investigate the matter thoroughly and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We respectfully appeal to the entire Zongo community and the general public to remain calm and peaceful, and to allow the security agencies the necessary space and cooperation to conduct thorough investigations,” Alhaji Shaibu Suleiman noted. He also encouraged residents to support the authorities with credible information that could assist in the arrest of the culprits behind the crime.
The Sarkin Zango Palace commended the swift response of the Member of Parliament for Asawase Constituency, Hon. Muntaka Mubarak, and the Municipal Chief Executive of Asokore Mampong, Hon. Ben Abdallah Alhassan, who have both stepped in to provide leadership and guidance in the aftermath of the incident.
The Chief further called on security agencies to act with professionalism, diligence, and urgency to reassure the public of their safety and prevent the situation from escalating.
Recognizing the potential for tension within the Zongo and surrounding communities, the statement strongly advised all residents, particularly the youth, to avoid violence or retaliatory actions. Alhaji Shaibu Suleiman emphasized the need to preserve the long-standing peace and harmony within Kumasi and the wider Ashanti Region.
He also invoked the wisdom of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, whose consistent advocacy for peaceful coexistence among diverse ethnic groups in the region continues to serve as a guiding light for communities.
“Let us not allow this tragedy to sow seeds of division or unrest. The strength of our community lies in our unity, discipline, and adherence to the teachings of peace in Islam and the values of mutual respect and tolerance,” the Chief said.
The Office of the Asawase Zongo Chief concluded its statement with prayers for peace, justice, and divine guidance in navigating this painful period.
“May peace prevail in our communities. May justice be served swiftly. And may Allah continue to guide and protect us all.”
Signed:
Alhaji Shaibu Suleiman M. B.
Asawase Zongo Community Chief
Contact: 0243770052 / 0261666559
