The Chief of Mempeasem, Nii Torgbor Obodai Ampaw VI, has issued an apology to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the people of Ghana after a video of him not standing for the National Anthem went viral.

The incident occurred during the 2023 edition of the Green Ghana Day Celebration held at the University of Ghana. In the video, President Akufo-Addo can be seen visibly upset as he directs the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Henry Quartey, to inform the chief to stand up and observe the National Anthem, while the chief remained seated.

In his statement, the chief explained that his inability to stand during the National Anthem was due to his ill health. He clarified, “I would like to state for the records that I did not elect to wilfully refuse to stand to observe the National Anthem. No patriotic son of the land would do so let alone a chief, more so in the presence of the President and other distinguished guests. I did not stand to observe the National Anthem because I felt weak.”

The chief expressed deep regret for the incident and extended his sincerest apologies to the President and the people of Ghana. He also urged Ghanaians to exercise restraint in their reactions, particularly towards the President, emphasizing that the President is the custodian of Ghana's sovereignty and should be respected.

“I am, therefore, by this communication, unreservedly apologizing and also encouraging all Ghanaians to exercise restraint with their reactions, especially as directed to the number one Gentleman of the land. The President is the custodian of our sovereignty, and thus it is his duty at all times to be zealous in defending the same,” he stated.

The chief's apology comes as an effort to address the controversy surrounding the incident and to reaffirm his commitment to the nation.