By Nicholas Osei-Wusu, Kumasi
A grand Durbar of the chiefs and people of Asanteman is being held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi to climax activities commemorating 25 years of the ascension of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II as the 16th Asantehene.
Highlights of the Ad33k3se3 grand Durbar is the public display of the ‘Sikadwa Kofi’ or Golden Stool, the symbol of the soul and spirit of Asanteman.
‘Sikadwa Kofi’ is believed to have been commanded from the skies by the legendary fetish priest, Okomfo Anokye during a Durbar of some paramount chiefs on a sacred Friday in the 17th century.
Okomfi Anokye is said to have told the chiefs before the Golden Stool was commanded that, the Chief under whose feet it was to land would assume the headship of the Asante Nation.
It then descended at the feet of Opemso) Osei Tutu 1, who then became the founder King and first Asantehene as prophesied by the priest.
It was the target of many enemies of the Asantes during many of the battles they fought, including those with the British Army such as the famous ‘Sagrenti War.’
It is rarely brought out for public viewing with the last time it came out been the 5th Anniversary of the reign of the current Asantehene.
