-BY Daniel Bampoe
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has returned from a trip abroad, marking the end of a brief break from official duties.
His absence was notable, particularly after overseeing year-long anniversary celebrations in 2024.
Upon his arrival at Prempeh I International Airport on April 23, the King was warmly welcomed by traditional authorities, including Nana Otuo Sereboe II, Juabenhene, and Akyeamfuo Asafo Boakye Agyemang Bonsu, Asafohene.
Other dignitaries who paid their respects to the King included Richard Ofori Agyeman Boadi, the Mayor of Kumasi, Matthew Opoku Prempeh, former MP for Manhyia South Constituency, DCOP Emmanuel Teye Cudjo, the Ashanti Regional Police Commander, and Brigadier General Matthew Opoku, GOC of the Central Command.
As customary demands, Asantehene paid a courtesy call to the Palace of Nana Konadu Yiadom II, Asantehemaa, his traditional mother, where he presented himself and exchanged pleasantries in accordance with tradition.
Resuming Mediation Efforts
According to a statement issued by the Palace on April 15, Otumfuo Osei Tutu will resume his mediation role in the lingering Bawku chieftaincy dispute from April 28 to May 1, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
This development comes as a welcome relief to the people of Bawku, who have been eagerly awaiting the his intervention in the longstanding conflict.
The Asantehene schedule is set to be filled with various activities, including the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation 25th Anniversary fundraising and Millennium Excellence Awards.
Additionally, he will preside over several traditional disputes before both the Kumasi Traditional Council and the Asanteman Council.
Paramount among all the activities is the highly anticipated Odwira Festival, scheduled to begin at the end of October.
