Ghanaians frustrated by the decision from the UK to loan back looted artifacts to the Asante Kingdom. Many are unhappy as the artifacts hold historical and cultural significance.
The loan agreements, spanning three years with an option for a further three years, were established with Otumfo Osei Tutu II. The items will be displayed at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi to celebrate his silver jubilee.
Some national museums in the UK are banned by law from permanently giving back contested items in their collections. Loan deals such as this are seen as a way to allow objects to return to their countries of origin.
This move has stirred mixed reactions among Ghanaians who had hoped for the complete restitution of the looted artifacts. Tristram Hunt, Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), clarified that the new cultural partnership is not a form of restitution by the back door.
Some Ghanaians on social media find the complexities strange and have expressed their views. They express their disappointment with the decision and hope for a more permanent restitution of the looted artifacts.
Overall, the loaning back of the looted artifacts to the Asante Kingdom has caused disappointment and frustration among Ghanaians. The hope for the complete restitution of the artifacts remains a major concern for many in the country.
