Ex-Prez Kufuor Assisted by 3 Men as He Pays Homage to Otumfuo at Asantehemaa’s One-Week Observance
- Former President Kufuor won hearts when he walked gingerly to pay homage and console the Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II at the Asantehemaa's one-week observance
- In trending videos, the former president was seen walking slowly to greet the Asantehene with the help of three men
- The video melted the hearts of many Ghanaians who took to the comment section to admire Kufuor's humility
On Thursday, August 21, 2025, the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi was filled with solemnity and tradition as Asanteman gathered to mark the one-week observance of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom II.
Source: Instagram
Former President Kufuor greets Otumfuo
The event drew dignitaries from across Ghana, including former President John Agyekum Kufuor, who paid homage to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
In videos trending online, the former president was supported as he walked toward the Asantehene and exchanged pleasantries with him in a moment that underscored the deep bond between Ghana’s statesmen and the Ashanti Kingdom.
Clad in rich black cloth, a symbol of mourning in the Ashanti tradition, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II led chiefs, elders, and thousands of mourners in observing the sacred rite. The atmosphere was one of reverence as the people of Asanteman demonstrated unity in grief and respect for the late queen mother, who passed away on August 15, 2025, at the age of 98.
The ceremony was marked by a blend of solemnity and cultural grandeur, as the Asantehene sat in state to receive greetings and condolences from traditional rulers, political leaders, and other well-wishers. Drumming, dancing, and traditional dirges accompanied the gathering, while courtiers upheld centuries-old Ashanti customs of mourning.
Former President Kufuor, who is himself an Asante royal, shared a brief but warm interaction with Otumfuo, reflecting the deep cultural ties and respect accorded to the throne. Other political figures and dignitaries were also seen filing past to greet the Asantehene and express solidarity with the Ashanti Kingdom during its period of mourning.
The late Nana Konadu Yiadom II, who reigned as Asantehemaa for nearly five decades, was celebrated for her wisdom, humility, and unwavering support for the Asantehene. Her passing marks the end of an era, and the one-week observance was just the beginning of a series of traditional rites leading to her final funeral rites.
As Kumasi prepares for the grand funeral, the one-week ceremony stands as a testament to the Asante Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and its ability to unite people from all walks of life in moments of grief and remembrance.
Reactions to Kufuor paying homage to Otumfuo
Many people talked about former president Kufuor being their favourite president as they talked about his humility in attempting to walk to pay homage to the Asantehene despite his physical challenges.
Others also talked about noticing the Asantehene clapping as Kufuor walked towards him with the help of three men.
The reactions of social media users to the trending video from the Asantehemaa's one-week observance are below:
she_loves_stonebwoyb said:
"One of my favorite president😍😍. Good man."
karenkashkane said:
"I love President Kufuor so so much. Such a graceful man. He always has a smile on his face. He’s so intentional about being at every function and it’s so admirable ❤️❤️❤️❤️."
elle._renee said:
"Your favourite President’s favourite President. Can’t deny. Period. Otumfour wishes He could break protocol and stand up to shake His hands ❤️❤️❤️."
ajtrendz_1 said:
"Who noticed Otumfour clapping 👏. This is a sign of respect and appreciation."
yaa_biwt_1 said:
"Owwww. See how Otumfuo was so happy to see him. His applause even shows how much grateful he was to see him, and he even wished he could just break protocol or cultural rules to stand and hug 🤗 him 😂😂😂😂😂this is beautiful 😻."
kutawutie said:
"Former President Kufuor truly embodies what it means to be a leader, graceful in every step, deeply respected, and a shining example of humility and service."
chelsea_ohenewaa said:
"Kuffour wasn’t forced oo tom!!! He did it out of free will."
Source: Facebook
Otumfuo reunites with his childhood teacher
YEN.com.gh reported that as dignitaries, royals, and citizens troop to the Manhyia Palace to console Otumfuo Osei Tutu II following the passing of the Asantehemaa, a touching reunion has warmed many hearts.
In a viral video, the Asantehene was seen reconnecting with his former primary school teacher, who had come to pay her respects and extend condolences to the monarch during this period of mourning.
The encounter was deeply emotional, as the teacher and her illustrious former pupil shared a moment of warmth that transcended royalty and power. Their bond, forged decades ago in the classroom, drew admiration from many who witnessed the scene.
Source: YEN.com.gh
