Otunfuo Osei Tutu II Chalks 25 Years on Golden Stool
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II marks his Silver Jubilee as the 16th occupant of the golden stool prior to his leadership and 25 years of peaceful reign in Asanteman. April 26, 2024, marked the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign as the Asantehene.
A number of events have been organized over the past weeks in honour of the Asantehene’s Silver Jubilee.
According to Otumfuo Manwerehene, Dr. Baffour Osei Hyeaman Brantuo VI, the enstoolment of Otumfuo Osei Tutu was fraught with difficulties. He added that the emergence of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was quite challenging, however, the kingmakers showed commitment and loyalty to Otumfuothroughout the process.
“Enthroning a King is not easy. We are part of those who enthroned the current King. All we did was go to the queen mother who provided us access. Before then, there was so much politics at play but our elders advised us not to fall victim to any form of bribery which is targeted at influencing the enstoolment process”.
“We rejected all gifts, including the Pajeros, and insisted on the queen mother’s choice”, he stated.
The Silver Jubilee celebration took place at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi and people from diverse backgrounds were present at the occasion to experience the beautiful tradition and cultural display from the people of the Ashanti land.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II warmly welcomed traditional rulers and royalty from across the country as well as representatives from neighbouring West African countries.
Royal representatives and officials from several ethnic groups in the country residing in the Ashanti land also graced the special event.
They said the meeting is intended to show that the people of Ashanti are tolerant and hospitable. We have harmoniously lived with people from various backgrounds and diverse cultures. Today we all live together in the region.
Representatives of the Zongo community also emphasized on the need to show reverence and pay homage to the Asantehene.
They stated that in the Zongo communities, people have always expressed their respect for Otumfuo Osei Tutu II therefore they deemed it necessary to make it known to him at the Silver Jubilee celebration.
By Bridget Anteh