Chiefs and traditional authorities in Asanteman have been directed to wear black cloths, locally called Kuntunkuni, during the four-day burial rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.
The Planning Committee for the funeral rites, scheduled to begin on Monday, September 15, announced that the dress code is mandatory and must be strictly observed.
At a press conference, Committee Chairman Nana Effah Appenteng Omanhene of Bompata traditional area emphasized that “the dress code is black for all chiefs,” adding that red attire is unauthorized and inappropriate for the ceremonies.
The Committee also directed all Paramount and Sub-chiefs to be present from September 16 to 18, when the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will sit in state to receive dignitaries from across the country and beyond.
The burial rites, running from September 15 to 18, will feature a series of traditional observances, with filing past scheduled for dignitaries and the general public daily from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.
On the final day, filing past will close at 11 a.m. to allow for a burial service at 3 p.m. Later in the evening the Manhyia Royal family in line with tradition will hold possession from Manhyia Palace through to Bantama Baamu for traditional rites to be performed there.
The royal family will proceed from Bantama to Breman Baamu, where the late Queen will be laid to rest in strict compliance of the Asante Kingdom royal traditional burial rite.
Authorities have also announced restrictions on outdoor movement in Kumasi, beginning at 7 p.m. on September 18, to pave the way for the burial.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
