The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has stated that any plans to harm the Ashanti Kingdom by individuals or groups, including the government, politicians, and other tribes in the country, will not succeed. During a durbar on Thursday 8th February 2024, to mark the 150 years celebration of the Sagranti War dubbed as the Kuntunkuni festival in Manhyia, Otumfuo urged Ghanaians to unite for a common purpose to promote national growth built on a foundation of peace.
He explained that formerly the Ashanti Kingdom was not part of the Gold Coast “but now we are part and rule the Kingdom under the supreme 1992 constitution of Ghana. We respect the laws, and we are all living peacefully in the country. So where from the hatred and the anti-Ashanti agenda’’ he asked. The Ashanti Monarch, however, issued a cautionary statement against politicians and anyone secretly fashioning foul plots against Asante in Ghana. Otumfuo emphasized that Asanteman is indestructible, evidence of which resides in the story of the Sagrenti war of 1874.
Otumfuo noted that the Golden Stool houses the soul of the Kingdom and with its existence, retains Asanteman, making it indestructible. “Asante is alive. 150 years ago, the whites destroyed this city, but the Golden Stool remained. Various kinds of guns came to Kumasi, but the Golden Stool remained untouched. So far as the Golden Stool remains, no one can touch Asanteman. It is the soul of Asanteman and Nananom used their blood to protect it.”
“You will be overcome if you decide to take out Asante. All those who plot against the kingdom must stop. We live here in love…Politicians must know that power is transient. Use love to rule. If you rely on your power, remember that your time will end soon.”
He also decried the perceived hostility against Asantes by some Ghanaians as he indicated that Asanteman is welcoming and home to different ethnic groups. These ethnic groups have become a part of the Asante Kingdom due to the warm hospitality of the host.
“The Zongos are on our land, we live in peace. Ewes are here and we have Anloga here as well as Fantes New Town for Fantes. Why is our love being reciprocated with hatred? Let’s be united. All political parties must know that without Asante, Ghana cannot stand. We are not above anyone; we are equals but I won’t allow anyone to cheat us.”
Leaning on history, Otumfuo stated that Asante joined the Gold Coast to become a part of Ghana after a promise to make the country a Monarchical State in which the Asantehene would be the ceremonial head during attempts by the then Gold Coast to seek independence.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Isaac Bediako
