Monarchical Historian at the Manhyia Palace, Opanin Osei-Bonsu Safo-Kantanka, has assured the public that the demise of the Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, will not affect the ongoing mediation efforts in the Bawku crisis spearheaded by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

He stated that the Ashanti Kingdom operates within a structured hierarchy, which grants the second-in-command the authority to act in the absence of the Asantehene. Therefore, despite the significant loss, the Mamponghene’s death will not disrupt the mediation process.

“The demise cannot affect any deliberations, including the ongoing Bawku mediation,” he said in an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

The monarchical historian noted that although the Mamponghene’s passing is a major blow to the kingdom, it will not hinder its operations, as someone is designated to assume his responsibilities.

He disclosed that the funeral rites will be deeply spiritual in nature, though physical activities, including a befitting burial, will also be observed.

According to him, the Mamponghene held the second most powerful position in the Ashanti traditional hierarchy, often representing the Asantehene in key customary matters. His silver stool symbolizes this authority, placing him second-in-command in the kingdom.

Daasebre Osei Bonsu, born on December 31, 1939, passed away at the age of 86 after reigning for 26 years.

Before ascending to the throne, he was known as Saint Oswald Gyimah-Kessie, a lawyer and economist who later served as the Registrar of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.

Renowned for his diplomacy and unwavering dedication, Daasebre Osei Bonsu’s legacy spans decades of service to his people and to Ghana’s broader chieftaincy institution.

The news of his passing was formally communicated to the Asantehene at the Manhyia Palace, in accordance with the deeply rooted customs and reverence accorded to royals in the Ashanti Kingdom.

His last public appearance was during the most recent Akwasidae at Mampong, where he condemned some NDC supporters for inciting tribal tensions during protests over the nomination of a Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Mampong Municipal Assembly.

Meanwhile, the Asantehene resumed mediation efforts between the two factions involved in the ongoing Bawku conflict on Monday, April 28, 2025.

This follows an assurance by President John Mahama that the peace process led by the Asantehene will continue as part of national efforts to restore calm in the troubled region.

In a statement issued on April 15, the Asantehene confirmed that mediation sessions would be held from April 28 to May 1 at his palace in Kumasi, aimed at resolving the Bawku disturbances.


VA/MA