The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, reaffirmed his commitment to uphold exemplary leadership characterized by integrity, firmness, and sincerity during his tenure on the golden stool.
He emphasized that since assuming this esteemed position, no one has attempted to sway his decisions with monetary influence due to his unwavering principles and impartiality in resolving palace matters.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu underscored the inherent wealth and spiritual integrity of the golden stool, making it invulnerable to attempts at bribery or manipulation.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service commemorating his 74th birthday at Saint Cyprian’s Anglican Church in Kumasi, he attributed his success not to his own wisdom but to his steadfast convictions, regal demeanor, resoluteness, humility, and reverence for God.
This event was part of the celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of his reign as the 16th occupant of the golden stool. Reflecting on his upbringing, he described it as typical of any local household, never foreseeing his eventual ascension to such a significant role in the Asante kingdom.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu also recounted a personal anecdote of being initially denied entry into Prempeh College by his uncle, Sir Osei Agyemang Prempeh I, which led him to attend Sefwi-Wiawso Secondary School instead.
He remarked that his obedience to his uncle had yielded numerous blessings throughout his life, bringing about significant transformations for both himself and the Asante Kingdom. He firmly believes that demonstrating respect and obedience can open up positive pathways in personal growth.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu expressed gratitude to Ghanaians, particularly the people of Asanteman, for their unwavering trust and support during his reign, which has yielded many beneficial outcomes. He expressed optimism that, with divine assistance, many more accomplishments lie ahead in the years to come.
During the thanksgiving service, Right Reverend Dr. George Kotei Neequaye, Anglican Bishop of Tema Diocese, urged Ghanaian chiefs to emulate Otumfuo Osei Tutu’s leadership qualities and to actively position the chieftaincy institution for its role in national development. He offered prayers for continued divine guidance for the king to fulfill his aspirations for his people and Ghana as a whole.
The event was attended by notable figures including former President Kuffuor, Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings, former First Lady, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Minister for Energy, and Mr. Alan Kwadwo Kyeremateng, Leader of the Movement for Change, among others such as Mr. Samuel Payne, Kumasi Mayor, Mr. Simon Osei-Mensah, Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, former Minister for Agriculture, and many more.
