The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has called on leaders of the various political parties to shun bitterness and violence and allow peace to reign in the country.
He wants political party leaders to bury their differences and embrace the spirit of a resurrected Ghana united by a common heritage and at peace with itself.
The Asantehene made the remarks during the fifth Akwasidae K3se at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi to commemorate 20 years since he ascended the Golden Stool.
He said the presence of the Awomefia of Anlo state, Torgbui Sri III and his kinsmen at the Akwasidaekese, the first ever, was a clear sign of unity, urging President Akufo-Addo and all political parties to let the breeze of reconciliation between Asantes and Anlos to “guide us to our destiny which is a vibrant Ghana developing in peace and harmony.”
“We draw attention to the significance of presence of our brothers at this Adaekese because they provide a clear signpost to a new spirit that is brewing in our nation. The spirit of a resurrected resurgent Ghana, united by a common heritage and at peace with itself,” he said.
He appealed to political parties and their leaders to work against “the rancor, the bitterness and the violence out of our political discourse and allow our nation embrace a new era of peace”
The event which was held at Manhyia Palace was attended by thousands of people from across the country and other parts of the world.
There was a blend of spectacular display of culture and traditions amidst drumming and dancing as well as firing of musketeers.
Local and foreign dignitaries including traditional leaders, current and former heads of states and religious leaders graced the event.
The Asantehene and Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III rode in palanquins to the durbar grounds amidst waving their subjects who hailed praises on them.
The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo in his address commended the Asantehene for his role towards promoting peace and development in Ghana.
“We congratulate the Asantehene on his 20th anniversary celebration. Your contributoionn since you ascended the throne has really revamped the country’s socio-economic development. The unity and peace being enjoyed in Ghana are as a result of your good works. Not too long ago, you led the committee of eminent chiefs to resolve the long-standing dispute in Dagbon. It is for the reason that many have traveled far and near to extend a hearty congratulations to you. We ask for God’s blessing to give you an additional 20 years to your ruling so you continue assisting the country and the people of the Ashanti Kingdom,” he said.
On 26th April 1999, Barima Kwaku Duah ascended the Asante throne as the sixteenth occupant of the Golden Stool.
He was given a stool name, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
As part of his 20th anniversary, many have hailed him as a King who promoted peace and development in the country especially as he recently chaired the committee of Eminent rulers in the country to help resolve a several years old chieftaincy dispute in Dagbon.
