How Ghanaians are reacting to UK’s decision to ‘loan back’ looted gold artifacts
A section of Ghanaians are expressing their discontent following the recent decision by the UK to loan back looted artifacts to the Asante Kingdom instead of returning them permanently.
Many in Ghana are disappointed that the artifacts, which hold historical and cultural significance, are not being entirely returned.
The loan agreements, spanning three years with an option for a further three years, were established with Otumfo Osei Tutu II.
The items are expected to 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, and 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 to the BBC that the new cultural partnership is not a form of restitution by the back door.
This implies that it does not aim to restore permanent ownership of the artifacts to Ghana.
Some Ghanaians on social media find the complexities strange and have expressed their views below;
Source: Ghana News
