The Asante Kingdom is set to bid a royal farewell to Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, the esteemed Mamponghene and Krontihene of Asanteman, whose burial rites are scheduled from June 6 to 9, 2025, in Asante Mampong.
The climax of the ceremonies will occur on Monday, June 9, with the presence of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, who will honor the final rites of his long-serving deputy.
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, born Saint Oswald Gyimah-Kessie on December 31, 1939, passed away in April 2025 at the age of 85. His death was officially announced on April 28, 2025.
He ascended to the Silver Stool on August 25, 1996, succeeding his uncle, Nana Atakora Amaniampong II, and became the 28th occupant of the Silver Stool. His enstoolment marked the end of nearly two decades of chieftaincy disputes in Mampong, ushering in an era of peace and development.
In 1999, following the passing of Otumfuo Opoku Ware II, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II served as the Regent of the Asante Kingdom from February 25 to April 26, overseeing a smooth transition that led to the enstoolment of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
His leadership during this period was instrumental in maintaining stability within the kingdom.
Beyond his traditional roles, Daasebre was a distinguished academic and administrator.
He served as the Registrar of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) from 1991 until his retirement in 2000, after 28 years of service.
His tenure at KNUST was marked by efforts to bridge tradition and modernity, bringing cultural richness to the academic environment.
As Mamponghene, Daasebre championed numerous development initiatives.
He was a staunch advocate against illegal mining (galamsey), successfully expelling such activities from his jurisdiction and urging other chiefs to do the same.
His commitment to education led him to sponsor many brilliant but needy students in the Mampong area, facilitating their access to secondary and tertiary education.
Additionally, he played a pivotal role in improving sanitation and water systems within the traditional area.
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II held several significant positions within the chieftaincy institution, including permanent Vice-President of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs, Chairman of its Standing Committee, and member of both the National House of Chiefs and its Judicial Committee.
His contributions to the Asante Kingdom and Ghana at large have left an indelible mark, and his legacy will be honored during the upcoming burial rites.
The people of Asante Mampong and the entire Asanteman are invited to participate in the funeral activities to pay their respects to a leader whose life was dedicated to service, unity, and development.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
