Eugene Nyavor
Many Ghanaians have for years been fascinated and at the same time mystified by Freemasonry, which they presume is some ultra secret cult that is doing some bad, bad things around the world. However, information available to ghlinks.com.gh indicates that that is not the case.
Ghanaians were surprised to learn not long ago that former president John Agyekum Kufuor had been appointed a senior grand warden of the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE).
The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) is the governing body of Freemasonry in England, Wales and the Channel Islands.
The announcement sparked accusations among some Ghanaians that Kufour had got himself involved in with secret cult. Many Ghanaians were also stunned when we reported that some powerful Freemasons had stormed the funeral of the late diplomat, KB Asante, to bid him farewell. K.B Asante was a Freemason when he was alive.
That episode renewed the public debate on what Freemasonry is and what it stands for.
So what exactly is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the world’s largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations, ghlinks.com.gh understands.
Its members come from all walks of life and meet as equals, irrespective of their faith, ethnic group or position in society. Public declaration of membership of Freemasonry is optional. According to the UK Sun newspaper, there are six million Freemasons around the world.
Here 5 prominent and powerful Ghanaians who are Freemasons:
1. J.A Kufour
Former president J.A Kufour has been a Freemason member for many, many years. He is currently a senior grand member in the organisation.
2. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
The Asantehene is said to be a well-known Freemason. He is one of the most prominent members of the association in Ghana.
3. VCRAC Crabbe
The former Supreme Court judge is a proud Freemason. He was one of the Freemasons who “stormed” KB Asante’s funeral to bid him goodbye.
4. Otwasuom Osei Nyampong VI (Kamenahene of the Akwamu)
Known in private life as Yaw Adjei, he is the grand master of the Grand Lodge of Ghana. He is reported to have also been active in providing the public with more information about Freemasonry.
5. Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Ekumfi
The current board chairman of the Ghana Infrastructural Investment Fund is also reported to belong to the orgainsation.
