The Monarchical Historian at the Manhyia Palace, Opanin Osei-Bonsu Safo-Kantanka, has clarified the succession structure of the Ashanti Kingdom following the death of the Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II.
He stated that in the absence of the Mamponghene, the Essumegyahene, Nana Okyere Kusi Aduako II, who heads the left wing of the Ashanti Kingdom, assumes responsibility for traditional duties. This arrangement remains until a new Mamponghene is installed.
According to Safo-Kantanka, the Ashanti Kingdom is traditionally divided into two major wings—the right and the left. The right is led by the Mamponghene, who supervises over 15 paramountcies, while the left is headed by the Essumegyahene. In situations where the Mamponghene is absent or deceased, the Essumegyahene takes over official functions.
Should the Essumegyahene also be unavailable, the Adansihene, Kotwere Bonsrah Afriyie II, may act in that capacity.
The Mamponghene holds the second-highest position in the Ashanti traditional hierarchy, with his silver stool being second only to that of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, who passed away at the age of 86 after serving for 26 years, was previously known as Saint Oswald Gyimah-Kessie, a lawyer, economist, and former Registrar at KNUST. His leadership was marked by diplomacy and dedication to the chieftaincy institution and national development.
The official announcement of his death was made at the Manhyia Palace, reflecting the customs of the Ashanti Kingdom.
Source: GhanaWeb