Many Ghanaians were stunned when YEN.com.gh reported last week 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 involved in with a secret cult. Others stated that Freemasonry is a religion like any other and there was nothing to fear from it.
So what exactly is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the world’s largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations. 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. Apart from J.A. Kufuor, there are other Ghanaians who are believed to be Freemasons.
Here are some of them.
1. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
The Asantehene is said to be a well-known Freemason.
2. Henry Martey Newman
The chief of staff during the presidency of the late former president John Atta Mills is said to be a member of the organisation.
3. Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Ekumfi
The current board chairman of the Ghana Infrastructural Investment Fund is also reported to belong to the orgainsation.
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. Dr Alex Tweneboah
The ex-president of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA) was reportedly a Freemason. He is, however, said to have been expelled from the organisation after he was arrested for alleged involvement in a simbox fraud.
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