Ahead of honouring a summons issued by the Kumasi Traditional Council over a controversial broadcast, the management of Wontumi Multimedia has issued a sincere apology to Manhyia following the inappropriate remarks made by Lawyer Maurlce Ampaw about the royal fraternity during his live TV talkshow, “Mmra Ne Abrabo Mu Nsem” show aired on Wontumi TV over the weekend.
Describing his utterance as unruly in a statement signed by the General Manager of the media outfit, the management said Maurice Ampaw’s conduct was unacceptable.
“The Management of Wontumi Multimedia wishes to render its unqualified and unreserved apology to the Kumasi Traditional Council (KTC) and Nananom for the unruly behaviour exhibited by one of our hosts at Wontumi Television by name Lawyer Maurice Ampaw.
“Management understands the importance of upholding respect and dignity, especially when it comes to matters involving customs and traditions, as well as esteemed figures like yourselves.
“We recognize that the conduct displayed by Lawyer Maurice Ampaw through our medium Wontumi Television, was completely unacceptable and does not reflect the values and standards of our organization,” the statement said.
While noting steps being taken to remedy the situation, the management said it had directed the indefinite suspension of the programme pending the final resolution of the matter.
“We must bring to the notice of our respected Nananom that management had no foreknowledge of the content of the programme on the said night, neither does it control over the minute details of the programme. Lawyer Maurice Ampaw unilaterally produced his show and determined issues to be discussed.
“Notwithstanding that, management does not intend to absorb itself of any blame and therefore accept full responsibility for any mishap,” the statement added.
The Kumasi Traditional Council summoned Wontumi Multimedia and Lawyer Maurice Ampaw to appear before them on Monday to address the charges against them. This decision was made after the council became aware of the alleged disrespectful comments made by Wontumi towards Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
On Monday, January 22, the NPP delegation, including General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, appeared before the council at the Manhyia Palace. Unfortunately, Wontumi was unable to attend the meeting due to illness. In addition to Wontumi, the council also ordered lawyer Maurice Ampaw and the management of Wontumi TV/Radio to appear before them regarding their alleged involvement.
Lawyer Adom Appiah pleaded with Manhyia to consider the Company’s position, particularly its CEO, Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, who has always shown the utmost respect to the Ashanti Kingdom’s overlord and the Nananom in general.
The Manhyia council said, “Wontumi should come along with Maurice Ampaw and the Management of his media house so they answer why they decided to use their air time to disrespect Nananom.”
