President John Dramani Mahama has urged the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to leverage his influence in supporting efforts to address Ghana’s economic challenges.
Speaking during a visit to the Manhyia Palace Sunday, January 19, 2025, President Mahama commended the Asantehene for his pivotal role in fostering economic growth during his previous administration.
He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing development in the Ashanti region, pledging to complete stalled and abandoned infrastructure projects, particularly in the healthcare sector.
The event was the first Akwasidae celebration in the year 2025, at the Manhyia Palace on January 19. During his visit, President Mahama said “our nation Ghana is facing a dire economic crisis, while this is not the first time we have been in such a crisis. This particular crisis is characterised by a high rate of inflation, macroeconomic instability, a depreciating currency, and a debt default which has shut us out of the international credit market.”
“It’s a more daunting challenge than we have ever experienced in our history. Your Royal Majesty, as a former President between 2013 and 2017, we faced macroeconomic instability and I remember some of the times we had obstacles in our way of bringing stability to our economy and restoring economic growth.
“I had the privilege of calling on you to use your influence and diplomacy to smoothen the path so that it could open up the path towards prosperity and progress and anytime I called on you, you didn’t hesitate. And I would like to thank you for your cooperation I enjoyed with you at that time.
“As we have inherited a difficult economic situation, I will be calling on you again from time to time,” the President stated.
The significant cultural event is celebrated by the Asante people to honour their ancestors and heritage.
The Akwasidae festival is a grand celebration that showcases the rich cultural traditions of the Asante people.
Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the 26th occupant of the Golden Stool, has been instrumental in promoting and preserving the cultural heritage of the Asante Kingdom.
On his part, Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in a speech read by Mamponghene, Dasebre Osei Bonsu appealed to President Mahama to fulfill all promises made to Ghanaians.
He stated, “we would like you to please remember always the undertakings and promises you have made. I implore you to fulfill all your promises to us in the great Asante Kingdom.
By Benjamin Aidoo|Akoma FM|Kumasi
