The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has shed light on the significant role played by Asanteman in Ghana’s independence struggle during a commemorative durbar dubbed “Kuntunkuni.”
The event marked the 150th anniversary of the renowned Sagrenti War, held on February 8, 2024.
During his address, the Asantehene recounted how Asantes, though initially not involved in the fight for independence, were later invited to join the cause. He emphasized that Ashanti existed as its own nation before becoming part of Ghana.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II elaborated on the historical context, highlighting the involvement of his uncle, Osei Agyemang Prempeh II, who was approached by leaders of the independence movement. They proposed making him a king akin to foreign queens if he joined their cause.
“Ashanti was its own nation, we moved and found ourselves in Ghana. Also, before Ghana came, Ashanti was already a nation,” Otumfuo Osei Tutu II explained, speaking in Twi. “During the fight for independence, we (Asantes) were not part. It is there that they came to say that ‘Nana, come and join us to become a unitary state. So that when we succeed, we will make you (Osei Agyemang Prempeh II) like the foreign queen, and we will be the prime minister.”
The Asantehene emphasized the importance of remembering Ghana’s history, stating, “We all know the history of Ghana but it looks as if we have forgotten them.”
Nana “Mo! ne kasa”