The Chief of Mempeasem, Nii Torgbor Obodai Ampaw VI, has explained that he was unable to stand for the national anthem during the Green Ghana Day event held at the University of Ghana recently becuase he was infirmed.

President Nana Akufo-Addo was captured on tape frantically gesturing at Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey to draw the chief's attention to stand up for the anthem at the ceremony.

In a statement issued later, the chief said: "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", he said.

Nii Torgbor Obodai Ampaw VI added: "I respectfully wish to extend my sincerest apologies to the president and the good people of Ghana about this rather unfortunate incident".

"I am, therefore, by this communication, unreservedly apologising 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 same,” he stated.