Nana Asante Bediatuo, Executive Secretary to the president; on Thursday, 23 August 2018, graciously took a bow in obeisance to Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II during the Asante monarch’s historic visit to Kibi, at the invitation of Okyehene Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin II, to mark the 75th anniversary of late Okyehene Sir Nana Ofori-Atta I.
Nana Bediatuo was in the company of Mr Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, the president’s cousin, both natives of Akyem, who incurred the wrath of the Asante monarch a few months ago.
Otumfuo and his host rode in palanquins in what was seen to be an extraordinary traditional extravaganza.
Otumfuo specifically named the two gentlemen and vented his spleen at them during a call on him by a government delegation at his Manyhia Palace in March 2018.
He accused them of plotting to undermine his authority as well as that of Asanteman in favour of Okyeman and Okyehene Amoatia Ofori Panin II.
President Nana Akufo-Addo, also an Akyem, had to intervene by rendering an apology to the Asante monarch on behalf of his kinsmen.
The apology was rendered at a closed-door meeting.
Asantehene’s historic visit to Kyebi
The cordial relationship between the Manhyia Palace and the Ofori Panin Fie was cemented when the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, made a historic visit to Kyebi, the traditional capital of Akyem Abuakwa yesterday, August 24.
A source at the Manhyia Palace confirmed the rumour that the Asantehene traveled with a huge delegation of about 100, including some paramount chiefs from the Ashanti and the Brong Ahafo regions.
Close watchers of Ghana’s traditional institution, and even political and social commentators believe Otumfour’s visit has demonstrated what modern chieftaincy stands for – unity of purpose and development.
When Osagyefuo Amoatia visited Kumasi earlier, he made a profound statement, emphasising that he cherished his relationship with the Asantehene.
“We do not want to remain just traditional rulers. Our country needs transformation, and we must encourage our people to take care of their own destiny,” the Okyenhene was reported to have said at a dinner hosted by Otumfuo Osei Tutu in his honour.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu, the 16th occupant of the Golden Stool is married to an Akyem, Lady Julia Osei Tutu.
