By Napoleon Ato Kittoe
Kumasi awaits a big gathering this coming weekend. Predictably, the crowds to attend the grand durbar to mark the 25th anniversary of Asantehene might be similar to the day he was enthroned, and possibly even larger. The traditional name given to the event is “adaekese.” The prelude includes expectations and messages from Kumasi residents.
“He owns our land, Kumasi is for him, we are here because of his benevolence and magnanimity,” a comment by a market woman addresses the King of Asante, in other words Asantehene, like a supernatural entity.
The subjects of the King respect him deeply, do not contest him, and wish he had a long reign. Well, he has been in the saddle for 25 years already, the contents of the period described as stellar, profound, impactful, extraordinary, and a mitzvah. Crowds are expected to pour at Kumasi, their location certainly Manhyia, and the object of interest, Asantehene.
The build-up to the climax of the celebrations marking his silver jubilee inspires a frenzy. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II sequels other great Asante Kings, he dovetails successive achievements, his contributions considered great, leaving in its trail a pilgrimage to Kumasi.
At this time, the King’s portrait dominates, and this is significant because this occurs in a city where other prominent citizens are easily advertised on billboards for occasions. In all these, the King submits to God as his authority, thus making time for church activities, which he practically demonstrates with humanitarian services.
The rivet of the people in Asantehene found in the Ghana Report, the ideal medium to amply their voices. All spoke Asante, praising Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for championing peace, facilitating development, and living legacies to illuminate the path of a nation that sometimes goes to the brink but for his intervention.
Whilst the commendations flowed, some reminded him of two things dear to their hearts. Market women want phase two of the Kejetia Market to be completed so they can occupy a decent space and get off the road, while soccer fans are not happy about the performance of the idol club of Asante, Kumasi Asante Kotoko.
Foreign dignitaries have started checking into the airfields to start their journeys to Kumasi.
