By Grace Zigah
A public protocol gaffe during a solemn traditional funeral in Mampong has gone viral after Stan Xoese Dogbe, Deputy Chief of Staff, and a close ally of President John Dramani Mahama, was captured in a trending video loudly correcting the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, for walking ahead of the president.
The incident happened on Saturday, June 28, during the final Dotoyie, of the late Daasebre Osei Bonsu, a revered Ashanti royal.
President Mahama had travelled to the Ashanti Region to pay his last respects — a gesture interpreted as a significant show of respect to the region’s traditional authority.
Caught On Camera
In the video widely shared on social media, Dr. Amoakohene is seen moving in front of President Mahama as they approached the funeral grounds.
This prompted Stan Dogbe, standing nearby, to shout sharply:
“Let him go first! Let him go first!” — demanding that the Regional Minister yield the path for the Head of State.
The moment caused visible confusion and tension, drawing the attention of mourners and media present at the event.
Breach of Protocol or Innocent Mistake?
Ghanaian protocol guidelines place former presidents high in the ceremonial order of precedence — second only to the sitting president.
In formal public spaces such as funerals, this often means they are to be given front position and priority when entering or exiting venues.
Critics argue that Dr. Amoakohene, who was representing the government in his regional capacity, should have known better than to outpace the president at such a public event.
Others believe it was a harmless misstep that was blown out of proportion by Stan Dogbe’s loud correction and the social media attention that followed.
Social Media Reacts
Online platforms erupted with varying opinions after the video surfaced.
Some netizens ridiculed the minister for “seeking camera attention” while others questioned Stan Dogbe’s tone and choice to call him out in public.
