Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin has extended his condolence to the family of former Vice President Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur.

The Okyenhene who says he is saddened by the death of the former statesman revealed in a brief statement that he was present at the Armed Forces Gymnasium when Mr Amissah-Arthur collapsed and was rushed to the 37 Military Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

He noted that he has been friends with the former Vice President for 20 years and they have been working out together at the gym with a small group of men and women which also includes the former second lady, Matilda Amissah-Arthur.

“That group and I, including his wife Matilda (Tillie) Amissah-Arthur were there when he took ill today. I am deeply saddened that Paa Kwesi did not recover. I extend my heartfelt condolences and prayers to his family at this most difficult time,” he stated.

Read the full statement below

Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur and I have been friends for 20 years. We met regularly, at dawn, at the gymnasium. A small group of men and women working out, tend to get to know each other extremely well. No formalities, no politics. Humanity. That group and I, including his wife Matilda (Tillie) Amissah-Arthur were there when he took ill today. I am deeply saddened that Paa Kwesi did not recover. I extend my heartfelt condolences and prayers to his family at this most difficult time.

- Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, Okyenhene