HISTORIC: Osei Tutu moves Asanteman to Kyebi

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu is in Kyebi in the Eastern region today, Thursday, August 23, 2018, for the first time in many years to meet Okyehene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin II.

The visit, which is deemed historic because of the cultural tensions that exist between Asantes and Akyems is to mark the 75th anniversary of the death of the chief of Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area, Nana Sir Ofori Atta I.

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II the 16th occupant of the Golden Stool, is visiting Kyebi as a special guest of honour at the 75th anniversary of the death a former Okyehene Nana Sir Ofori Atta who is recognized with the transformation of Akyem Abuakwa in the Eastern region.

The historic visit is expected to have a display of the Akan culture and tradition of the Akyems  in connection to that of Asantes.

The two traditional leaders participated in the Head of State Golf Invitational Tournament and had dinner to climax the event.

The long-held rift dates back to over 300 years during the Asante Wars of Expansion, and was recently fuelled by public comment by the Asantehene, accusing some individuals close to President Nana Akufo-Addo of trying to bring the Golden stool into disrepute.

Although the intervention of the President saw the Okyenhene making a visit to the Manhyia Palace, some people saw it as mere window dressing.

This explains why the visit of the Asantehene to Akyem Abuakwa is very significant. The two traditional leaders are believed to be subjects of long-held and sustained tension between their forefathers.