Asante golden stool can’t be stolen -Otumfuo

During the Kuntunkuni durbar, which marked the 150th anniversary of the Sargrenti War, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II made a statement regarding the British looting of Asante artefacts and regalia during the war. He highlighted that despite this, the Golden Stool of Asanteman remained unharmed.

Back in 1874, the British engaged in combat with Asanteman, resulting in the theft of artefacts and regalia from the then-Asantehene’s room.

Speaking at the durbar, Otumfuo emphasized that although the British had taken 400,000 oz of gold, valued at around 2 billion pounds today, along with several regalia and artefacts, they were unable to obtain the Golden Stool, which holds immense significance to Asanteman.

Otumfuo clarified that the Asantehene at that time did not seek conflict, but the British insisted on war, leading to the looting of valuable items.

He expressed his joy at the return of certain items that were previously displayed at the California Museum in America. These items were officially handed over to him during the durbar and will be exhibited at the Manhyia Palace Museum.

However, there are still 32 other items displayed in two UK museums, including the British Museum, which are yet to be returned on loan to Asanteman.

Otumfuo attributed his efforts to the successful return of the items, aiming to educate the current generation about the looting that occurred during the Sargrenti War.

Duringthe durbar, the British Ambassador to Ghana, Harriet Thompson, called for a stronger relationship between Asanteman and Britain.

COP Kofi Boakye leads John Mahama entourage to Manhyia

Retired Commissioner of Police (COP) Nathan Kofi Boakye led former President John Mahama during the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Sagrenti War in Asanteman.

The war took place in 1874 between the Asantes and the British Colonial Army. The event, known as “Kuntunkuni,” aimed to remember the devastating effects of the war and was attended by political figures including John Mahama. Kofi Boakye, dressed in black, accompanied John Mahama and his entourage to the event. Prior to this, Boakye had been involved in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) campaign to defeat the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Boakye’s affiliation with the NDC has prompted speculation that he may be chosen as John Mahama’s running mate in the upcoming December 2024 elections. Insiders claim that discussions and selection processes are currently underway within the NDC, and there is growing confidence that Boakye will be chosen. His close relationship with Mahama and his connections to the Ashanti Region, particularly the Manyhia Palace, have contributed to this speculation.

Some believe that selecting Boakye will help Mahama gain support from the influential Manhyia Palace ahead of the 2024 election. Despite leaving the police service, Boakye is highly respected for his professionalism and courage, having received numerous awards for his service to the police and Ghana. His potential inclusion on the ticket as Vice President is seen by some as a way to ensure a more professional and resolute response from the police against the NPP’s alleged plans to rig the 2024 election.