The much-talked about durbar “Adaekese” that only existed in figments has its long incubation period over, bursting its contents to a vivacious, colourful ceremony at Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Ghana.
Long retinues followed traditional rulers to durbar grounds. The radiance of the occasion in the bright colours of the Kente cloth on display, and the almost untouched, centuries-old traditions of the Ashantis in Ghana.
A galaxy of personalities from all walks of life and persuasions joined the activities marking the Asante King’s silver jubilee anniversary.
So important was the occasion that people navigated to positions to have a good view of proceedings. The sick were taken to event grounds, whilst tired limbs of hawkers stomped to the venue.
The President of the Republic of Ghana, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Ga Mantse were present and engulfed by this highly-charged atmosphere.
The years spent on the gold stool as the King of Ashanti Kingdom are as important as the day he took the oath of office in 1999 which marked a new dawn.
It highlights a respect for the good principles of the past whilst opening up to contemporary times, a period of soul-searching, and injection of momentum in development under the guidance of one of Ashanti’s greatest Kings, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.