The late Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, was the 2nd most power ruler in Asanteman
Mampong is the second most powerful paramountcy in Asanteman, and its occupant, the Mamponghene, holds the Silver Stool of the Asante Kingdom.
The Silver Stool, distinct from the Golden Stool, signifies the Mamponghene’s responsibility to act on behalf of the Asantehene in critical matters of custom and governance, particularly in the Asantehene’s absence.
Historian and lawyer, Yaw Anokye Frimong, has given the historical antecedent that led to the paramount chief of Mampong becoming the second most powerful person in Asanteman.
Speaking in an interview on Max TV, the historian said that Mampong became the holder of the Silver Stool of Asanteman due to the role its ancient paramount chief played in a war with the powerful people of Denkyira.
“When the Asantes were going to fight the Denkyiras, Okomfo Anokye told them that there is no way they (the Asantes) are going to win… He (Okomfo Anokye) said that he had to perform a miracle which required the sacrifice of three people. We all know these three people: Tweneboa Kodua of Kumawu, the chief of Ejumakase, and Mamponghene Buahene Anentuo.
“The then Asantehene, Osei Tutu, wanted to lead the Asantes to fight the Denkyira, but Okomfo Anokye said he could not because the people leading the fight were going to die. Osei Tutu wanted to sacrifice himself for Asanteman, but Okomfo Anokye told him he could not because his demise would affect the formation of the Asante nation,” he narrated.
He narrated that the then Mamponghene, who was less powerful compared to the other paramount chiefs, rather offered to lead the Asantes in a war that he knew he was going to die in.
After he died in the war and Asanteman becoming victory, Mampong took his place as the second most powerful paramountcy in Asanteman.
“Buahene Anentuo was the one who offered to lead the Asantes so he would sacrifice his life… Okomfo Anokye took note of this and, just as he said, the Mamponghene died during the battle.
“After this war, Asanteman decided to do something to remember Buahene Anentuo. They decided that the Golden Stool is for the ruler of Asanteman; the second in command had to be Mampong. And so from that time, Mampong was elevated to become second to Asante,” he said.
Watch a video of his remarks below (from 10:00):
BAI/AE