ACCRA – A high-powered delegation from the Asantehene, Otumfuor Osei Tutu II, formally announced the passing of the Asantehemaa to the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban SK Bagbin, on Monday. The delegation also extended an invitation to the Speaker and all of Parliament to attend the funeral rites of the late queen mother. This formal announcement and invitation adhere to traditional customs, underscoring the strong relationship between the Ashanti Kingdom and the legislative arm of Ghana’s government.
The delegation, which was received by the Speaker at Parliament House, was led by Nana Amomanhene. Other members included Nana Adjurahene, Barfuor Kantakrayi, Otumfuor’s senior linguist, and Mr. Ernest Saahene, head of protocol at the Manhyia palace. Their visit served as a crucial step in ensuring that key national institutions are formally informed of significant events within the Ashanti Kingdom, maintaining a sense of national unity and respect for traditional authority.
The acceptance of the invitation by the Speaker signifies Parliament’s respect for the Asantehene and the traditional customs of the Ashanti people. The participation of parliamentary members in the funeral rites of the Asantehemaa is seen as a gesture of solidarity and national mourning, highlighting the revered status of traditional leaders in Ghana’s modern political landscape.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
