I Have the Keys to Cape Coast But Formality Can’t Be Overlooked – Asantehene to Oguaamanhene

The King of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has justified his visit to the Paramount Chief of Oguaa Traditional Area, Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, to announce his presence in Cape Coast.

Acknowledging his unrestricted access privilege to the city, Otumfuo noted that due process was necessary.

“Some time ago, Otumfuo received an invitation from Mfantsipim School to attend a programme. After accepting the invitation, he sent an emissary to inform you about his coming. You reaffirmed his unrestricted access privilege through a key you gave him on his last visit.

“Though he has the keys to this city, he had to honour due process of coming to you first,” Otumfuo Kyeame Baffour Kantankrakyi said on behalf of His Majesty.

Outlining the itinerary of the Asantehene, his linguist said he will spend three nights in Cape Coast, during which he will attend the 150th anniversary celebration of Mfantsipim School on November 14, 2026.

“Otumfuo will depart for Takoradi on Sunday for another programme he has been invited to.”

He explained the trips are all geared towards the Asantehene’s quest to spur development in Ghana through education.

“Nananom are not politicians but they have to work towards the development of Ghana. Just like you, Otumfuo seeks to build the youth through education and thereby this tri-regional education tour.”

In accordance with tradition, the Asantehene presented traditional drinks to his host.

Welcome
Osabarimba offered the Asantehene welcome drinks locally known as “brɛ nsuo” as demanded by tradition and expressed his joy at hosting “his brother” once more in his city.

Emphasising the Asantehene’s access privilege, he conceded to the justification of due process.

Top Notch Hospitality
The Paramount Chief of Oguaa Traditional Area committed to personally ensuring the wellbeing and welfare of the Asantehene in the course of his stay.

“I will send two people to go with you and see where you are lodging and then I will personally come there tomorrow to make sure you get the best of hospitality here. We will give you the best treatment you deserve.”

Education
Touching on the mission of the Asantehene in Cape Coast, the traditional ruler recognised the goodwill of Otumfuo particularly towards education.

“Your presence here to support Mfantsipim speaks of your goodwill. We all look forward to see the school advance many more years. With your blessing I believe it will grow to 150 years.”

Gift
As a present, Osabarima gave an image of the Cape Coast Castle to be hanged at the Manhyia Palace.

“The castle is popular but is dented by certain things that transpired there. We don’t have to continue what happened. We have to make right all wrongs. The wife of President Trump has been here, the past and current Archbishop of Canterbury has also been here.”

Story by Hajara Fuseini

Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/