The Asante Mamponghemaa, Nana Afrakoma Difie, has nominated Lexlie Nkamsah Osei Bonsu as new chief to ascend the stool of the Asante Mampong Traditional Area, following the passing of the late Dasebre Osei Bonsu II.
The nominee, whose traditional name has not yet been officially announced to the public, is expected to succeed the late paramount chief as the next Asante Mamponghene, pending formal approval by the kingmakers of the Mampong Traditional Council.
In line with Asante custom and tradition, the nomination will subsequently be presented to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for final endorsement before the new chief is formally introduced and enstooled.
Sources within the Mampong Traditional Area indicate that the nomination process was peaceful, with the queen mother and elders reaching consensus on the chosen candidate after several rounds of consultations.
News of the nomination sparked jubilation across Asante Mampong, where residents expressed excitement and relief at the progress made in filling the vacant paramount stool.
Many community members were seen celebrating in the streets, describing the decision as a new beginning for the area depite opposite from some royal families.
The announcement was made under tight security made up of police and armed soldier.
The late Dasebre Osei Bonsu II, who passed away in 2023, reigned for over two decades and was widely respected for his leadership, contributions to education, and role in maintaining peace and development within Mampong and the Asante Kingdom.
The Mampong stool is one of the most prominent in the Asante Kingdom, regarded as the Silver Stool of Asanteman and the traditional seat of the Krontihene (second-in-command) to the Asantehene.
The occupant of the stool also plays a key role in the governance of the Ashanti traditional hierarchy and serves as acting Asantehene in the king’s absence.
The new Mamponghene, once confirmed, is expected to continue the legacy of his predecessor by promoting unity, development, and cultural preservation in the traditional area.
The official presentation and swearing-in ceremony before Otumfuo Osei Tutu II are expected to take place in the coming weeks.
Source : Isaac Justice Bediako/Kumasi
