The Silver Jubilee Anniversary durbar of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II celebrated 25 years of his reign with colorful ceremonies, including the Akwasidaekese festival.
The Silver Jubilee Anniversary durbar of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was a grand celebration of the rich culture and tradition of Asanteman. The event, marking exactly 25 years since the revered king ascended the Golden Stool in 1999, took place on Sunday against the backdrop of Akwasidaekese, a sacred festival in Ashanti tradition.
People from all walks of life gathered in large numbers to witness the colorful ceremony. Among the distinguished dignitaries present was Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who led a powerful government and New Patriotic Party (NPP) delegation. Dr. Bawumia, dressed in full traditional regalia, arrived at the event with his wife, Samira, both adorned in beautiful kente cloth.
The arrival of Dr. Bawumia’s bus at the grounds elicited instant cheers from the crowd, who eagerly tried to catch a glimpse of the NPP flagbearer. Dr. Bawumia and his entourage had to disembark from the bus and walk through the thick crowd to the venue.
The celebration continued into the night with a dinner at the Manhyia Palace in honor of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, attended by several dignitaries, including traditional rulers from across the country. The Ga Mantse was also in attendance, highlighting the significance of the event.
To mark the 25th year of the Asantehene’s rule on the Golden Stool, a big Akwasidae ritual was held at the Manhyia Palace. Notable individuals in attendance included Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, the former Minister for Food and Agriculture, and President Akufo Addo. The Ashanti word “Akwasidae” translates to “the day of the sacred stool” and is a day of immense importance for the Ashanti people, symbolizing their community’s resilience and togetherness.
Overall, the Silver Jubilee Anniversary durbar and Akwasidae ritual were vibrant displays of Asanteman’s rich culture and tradition, highlighting the deep-rooted significance of the Golden Stool and uniting people from diverse backgrounds in celebration.