Kufuor, Otumfuo, Afenyo-Markin: Prominent personalities affiliated with Freemasonry

Several high-profile individuals in the country have openly acknowledged their affiliation with the fraternal organization, Freemasonry.

These distinguished figures, who occupy esteemed roles, are also members of different denominations and regularly attend a variety of churches.

Among these personalities are the former President, John Agyekum Kufuor; the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II; Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin; National Security Minister, Albert Kan Dapaah, among others.

John Agyekum Kufuor

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor explained in an interview with Bola Ray that Freemasonry is a platform that nurtures a person morally and not a secret cult as others perceive it.

The former president, who was appointed a Senior Grand Warden of the United Grand Lodge of England, disclosed that he was not the first in his family to join Freemasonry.

"Members of my family have been there before me. Some were there even before I was born. I joined this society in 1967... it is not a secret cult. It is a good system for character building... It’s a society that believes in 'doing unto others as you want it to happen to you'."

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during the 25th anniversary celebration of his ascension to the Asante throne, confirmed his affiliation with the Grand Lodge of Ghana.

During the occasion, the Asantehene said: "Twenty-five years ago, I was initiated into Freemasonry. There is no doubt that in joining a society or club, one cannot help but wonder what benefit or restrictions await."

"In the case of Freemasonry, you are left to worryingly wonder more without knowing exactly what you are going to face and with no one ready to tell you what you want to know. After the 25-year period is that I have no regrets on being a Freemason, experiencing what it unfolds and what it means to be called a Freemason."

Among the members participating in the event were the National Security Minister, Albert Kan-Dapaah, Transport Minister Kweku Ofori Asiamah, Executive Chairman of Ghana Community Network Services Limited (GCNet) Dr. Nortey Omaboe, and others who are all part of the fraternal society.

Alexander Afenyo-Markin

Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu and Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, noted that he is a Freemason and a Roman Catholic at the same time during an interview with Citi TV in February 2024.

"I am a Freemason and a Catholic… I know how to respect friendship and if I give a word to a brother, I have to keep it," he said.

Henry Martey Newman

He served as a former chief of staff during the time of former President John Atta Mills in 2009. He still carried on with the work even after the demise of the president in 2012.

He, however, handed over his office after President John Dramani Mahama was sworn in.

Dr. Alex Tweneboah

He was alleged to have been expelled from the Brotherhood after a certain incident that led to his arrest. He was caught in a fraud case with the police and arrested.

This supposedly angered the brotherhood since it was against their principles, and he had to be expelled. He was the former president of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association.

Otwasuom Osei Nyampong VI

He is the current Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ghana. He disclosed in an interview that he has been in Freemasonry for close to over 30 years. But he further clarified and shed light on its operations.

He denied claims that it was a cult, adding that the society was formed to increase awareness of brotherly love and truth.

About Freemasonry:

Members have said Freemasonry is a fraternal organization with roots in the stonemason guilds of the 16th and 17th centuries, formalized with the establishment of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717.

It is known for its use of rituals, symbols like the square and compass, and its emphasis on moral and ethical teachings, charity, and brotherhood. Though not a religion, Freemasonry requires a belief in a Supreme Being.

However, Freemasonry has faced various concerns and criticisms. Its secrecy has led to suspicion and theories. Some religious groups criticize it for being incompatible with their doctrines. There are fears of undue political influence and corruption due to Masonic connections.

Additionally, some theories often depict it as a shadowy organization with significant global influence. Lastly, its historical male dominance and perceived lack of diversity have also been points of contention.

Despite these concerns, supporters argue that Freemasonry promotes personal development, ethical behaviour, and charitable work.

SB/BB