The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has given clear directives regarding the funeral and burial arrangements for the late Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, following his passing on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025.
These instructions highlight the steps to ensure a timely and respectful burial process in line with tradition.
Here are the key points concerning the upcoming funeral arrangements and the late Mamponghene’s legacy:
Burial Plans Set for the Coming Weeks
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has tasked Nana Agyakoma Difie II, the Asante Mamponghemaa, with organizing the burial of the late Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, within the next few weeks.
One-Week Observation on May 12
A one-week observation of the late Mamponghene is scheduled for Monday, May 12. Otumfuo has emphasized the importance of adhering to this timeline and expressed his desire for no delays in the arrangements.
Doteyie (Burial) Scheduled Three Weeks After
Following the one-week observation, Otumfuo has directed that the official burial (Doteyie) of the late Mamponghene take place three weeks after, ensuring that all preparations are completed in a timely manner.
Asanteman Council Meetings Suspended
In light of the preparations for the burial, Otumfuo has instructed that all Asanteman Council meetings be put on hold until after the burial has been conducted.
Solemn Observance for Asantehene’s 75th Birthday
The Asantehene’s 75th birthday, which falls on Tuesday, May 6, will be observed in a solemn manner due to the passing of the Mamponghene. This will be a time of reflection rather than celebration.
Immediate Action on Replacement Chief
During a gathering at the Manhyia Palace on May 5, Otumfuo stressed the need for an immediate replacement for the late Mamponghene, with the search for a successor to begin promptly after the 40-day observation period. The new chief will be responsible for organizing the 80-day observation.
Mamponghene’s Death Announced Publicly
The death of Daasebre Osei Bonsu II was announced to the Asanteman chiefs at a meeting on May 5. Daasebre passed away on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, after being transferred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi.
Late Mamponghene’s Background
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, born on December 31, 1939, was a respected economist and lawyer. He served as the Registrar of KNUST and reigned as Mamponghene for over 28 years. His mother, Teacher Mary Gyimah, was one of the pioneering female educationists in the Gold Coast era.
Education and Career
Daasebre Osei Bonsu was an alumnus of Prempeh College and the University of Ghana, Legon, where he earned a BA in Economics, Political Science, and Modern History. He also held an LLB (Hons) in Law.
