Opanin Osei-Bonsu Safo-Kantanka, Monarchical Historian at the Manhyia Palace
Monarchical Historian at the Manhyia Palace, Opanin Osei-Bonsu Safo-Kantanka has stated that Mampong was among the first groups to agree to form a configuration to fight against the Denkyira in ancient Ghana, in order to gain freedom for Ashanti.
According to him, they were instrumental in bringing the people together to resist oppression from the Denkyiras in the 1700 before the formation of the Ashanti kingdom in 1701.
“The Mampongs were among the people who volunteered to sacrifice their lives for the freedom of Ashanti from the Denkyiras,” he said.
Safo-Kantanka noted that the Mampong people are the second in command in all ways with the most second important stool in the kingdom, which is the silver stool.
The stool was gifted to the Mampongs by the king of Ashanti, which symbolises second in command in the hierarchy of the Ashanti Kingdom.
The Mamponghene is in charge, steers affairs, manages the kingdom in the absence of Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
He also represents Asantehene at the National House of Chiefs, and deputies as Asantehene in all aspects.
The monarchical historian further noted that though the demise of the Mamponghene is a big blow in the kingdom, it will not necessarily affect business since there is someone to act in his stead.
He stated that the funeral will be more of a spiritual thing although there will be physical activities, including a befitting burial rite.
The Mamponghene’s role placed him as the second-in-command in the Ashanti traditional hierarchy, often acting on behalf of the Asantehene in key matters of customs.
His silver stool is also the second most powerful stool in the hierarchy of the Ashanti Kingdom, which makes him the second in charge in the absence of Asantehene.
Daasebere Osei Bonsu, who was born on December 31, 1939, passed on at age 86 and reigned for 26 years.
Until his ascension to the throne, he was known as Saint Oswald Gyimah-Kessie, a lawyer and an economist by profession who later served as Registrar of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
Known for his diplomacy, and unwavering dedication, Daasebre Osei Bonsu’s legacy spans decades of service both to his people and to Ghana’s broader chieftaincy institution.
The news of his demise was formally communicated to the Asantehene at the Manhyia Palace, reflecting the deeply rooted customs and reverence accorded royals in the Asante Kingdom.
His last public appearance was during the last Akwasidae held at Mampong where he rebuked some NDC supporters for planting tribal division in their protest against the selection of an MCE for the Mampong Municipal Assembly.
VA/AE
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