By Napoleon Ato Kittoe
Grounds at Manhyia Palace in Kumasi in the Ashanti region of Ghana were clad in white as celebrations continued on Asantehene’s silver jubilee. The celebrant, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, seated with Lady Julia, his wife was showered with praises and blessings by the clergy.
Live music by gospel diva, Diana Hamilton who flew in from London, and the evergreen Daughters of Glorious Jesus set Manhyia agog.
The well-attended church service was dominated by church leaders, traditional rulers, and Ashanti royals, the variety of which told its own story. The age-old notions that traditional rulers are unchristian, and committed to fetishism were nowhere to be found.
Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the 16th occupant of the Gold Stool of the Ashanti Kingdom, has always placed God at the top as his foremost guide. He is compared to the Biblical King Solomon for his wise counsel. His forthright approach has overcome some of the thorny issues that confronted Asanteman (his kingdom), and Ghana at large. For Ghana, the King had been a huge moderating factor that had ensured the peaceful resolution of political controversies.
The Presiding Bishop of Methodist Church, Ghana, Most Rev. Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo in supplication to God invited protection of the enduring legacy of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and even more of his deliveries in the years ahead.
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II noted in a terse message that his leadership charts the path of truth and said his mission after he took the oath of office in 1999, could have suffered a jolt had it not been the support of God and good people.
Otumfuo said he came not for any faction but for all, rueing the deaths of departed elders whose advice proved invaluable to his steady reign. The King is also democratic. He said, he entertains all views by his subjects, yet the voices of truth are going to be upheld as always.
The interdenominational church service for Asantehene had the presence of over one thousand pastors. Also present was the Akyempimhene, Oheneba Adusei Poku, the Chairman of the Council of State, Daasebre Otuo Siriboe II, as well as politicians Alan Kyerematen and Isaac Osei.
