The Asante Kingdom is in mourning following the passing of the Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, a revered traditional ruler and Vice President of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs. He died at the age of 86, marking the end of a distinguished 26-year reign.
In accordance with Asante custom, the Mampong Traditional Council and the Bretuo Dynasty have officially informed the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, of the passing of the Silver Stool occupant. The solemn announcement was made at the Manhyia Palace, led by Mamponghemaa Nana Agyakoma Difie II, amid traditional rites and deep reflection.
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, born Oswald Gyimah-Kessie on December 31, 1939, was a respected lawyer and economist before ascending to the stool. He served as Registrar of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and brought a rare blend of intellect and cultural wisdom to his chieftaincy.
As Mamponghene, he was the second-highest-ranking chief in the Asante Kingdom, and often acted on behalf of the Asantehene in key matters of state and tradition. His leadership was defined by diplomacy, cultural stewardship, and deep commitment to unity and progress within his jurisdiction and beyond.
The late chief made his final public appearance during the last Akwasidae festival at Mampong, where he took a firm stand against tribalism, chastising some political actors for promoting ethnic division during a protest over the nomination of a Municipal Chief Executive for the area.
His legacy, rooted in both tradition and modern leadership, leaves a significant void in Ghana’s chieftaincy institution. Tributes have begun pouring in from across the country, with many acknowledging his lifelong service to the Asante Kingdom and the nation at large.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in accordance with royal protocols in the coming days.
