The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, demonstrated his appreciation for northern Ghanaians in a remarkable way—by addressing them in their native Hausa language during the durbar marking the celebration of his 25th anniversary on the throne.
In his speech, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II highlighted the harmony between the Ashantis and various tribes from the northern regions, a bond that has persisted since the creation of the Ashanti Region. He recalled how, as a child, if anyone broke their leg, they would go to the Moshie chief to fix it.
“… when we were young, whenever we broke our legs, we went to the Moshie chief to fix it. All of us, including the Hausas, we lived in harmony. When we were young, we used to say in Hausa, ‘for the sake of God, truthfully, everybody likes good things.’ I am saying this because everyone knows that we the Ashantis love people.”
The 25th-anniversary celebrations began with the launch of a book on Otumfuo Sir Agyeman Prempeh II, and a grand food fair (Feast Ghana) at Manhyia Palace. However, the presence of political party paraphernalia among some attendees raised concerns, prompting the event’s committee to urge people to avoid displaying political symbols during upcoming events.
The celebration on April 24, dubbed ‘Ahohor Durbar,’ saw visitors from across the globe pay homage to the Asantehene. This event coincided with Awukudae, a significant day in Asante culture, further emphasizing the historical and cultural importance of the occasion.
Additional events in the coming days include ‘Fireworks Night’ on Thursday, April 25, and a musical concert and a grand non-denominational church service at Dwabrem on Friday, April 26, which marks the 25th anniversary of the Asantehene’s ascension to the throne.
Watch a video of the Asantehene speaking Hausa, courtesy of Opemsuo Radio:
Asantehene speaks "Hausa" to express his affection for Northerners.#opemsuoradio pic.twitter.com/hxMPnrqqgF
— Opemsuo Radio (@OpemsuoRadio) April 25, 2024
