Kumasi, Ghana – Following a four-day funeral, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is set to perform the final rites for the late Asantehemaa. The final ceremonies will begin with the Queen’s body, in its royal casket, being taken to the Dwabrem grounds of the Manhyia Palace for a burial service scheduled for 3 p.m.
After presiding over the daytime ceremonies, the Asantehene will also oversee the traditional night rites. At 9 p.m., His Majesty will accompany the remains of Her Royal Highness to Bantama Baamu for rituals that will continue until midnight. From Bantama Baamu, the King will lead a solemn procession with the remains through Abusuakruwa before reaching the final resting place at Breman Baamu.
Upon his return to the Manhyia Palace, the Asantehene will perform the traditional kete dance with his royal wives, the Aheneyere, from 2 a.m. to 4 a.m. The wives will then be sent away with customary drinks.
The final phase of the rites will occur at 5 a.m. on Friday, a day that coincides with Fofie. His Majesty will undergo a purification rite, after which he will put on white cloths, symbolizing the conclusion of the funeral ceremonies.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
