[ 2016-11-25 ]

Kumasi Goes Black Over Otumfuo’s Mum
Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital, was
yesterday turned into a ‘black city,’ as
thousands of mourners besieged the forecourt of
the Manhyia Palace to mourn the death of
Asantehema Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, whose
one-week celebration was being marked.

Chief among the mourners were President John
Mahama, former presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and
Jerry John Rawlings, ex-First Lady Nana Konadu
Agyeman-Rawlings and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo,
New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate.

Some powerful traditional leaders on the African
continent, including Chief Gabriel Osawaru
Igbinedion, Esama of the Benin Kingdom in Nigeria,
chiefs from Asanteman and Ghana at large, other
politicians, the clergy, business men and women,
as well as people from all walks of life were
present.

The late Asantehemaa, who was the biological
mother of the sitting Asantehene, reportedly died
in her sleep at the Manhyia Palace on November 14,
this year.

She was said to have been unwell for some time
now, according to sources at the palace.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who was dressed in a black
cloth, left his Manhyia Palace in a palanquin at
about 1pm, amid the singing of dirges and the
firing of musketry. He also majestically danced to
traditional Asante mourning tunes.
The Asante King, who was seen chewing cola as
custom demands, was taken to the Asantehemaa’s
palace where some rituals were performed behind
closed doors.

The Asantehene and his entourage finally touched
the funeral ground around 2:10 pm to rapturous
ovation by the charged mourners.

Otumfuo finally sat in state for the dignitaries
to pay homage to him.

Some Asante culture, which dates back to several
centuries, were showcased during the solemn event.
For instance, some women were seen holding long
brooms which were lit with fire as they moved
across the funeral ground.

Some strange horns were also blown at the event to
signify that the Asante Kingdom had lost an
influential personality.

Some of the Asante chiefs were also seen dancing
to some strange mourning tunes.

Top fetish priests in Asanteman also made some
magical displays.

Source - Daily Guide

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