Rare scenes from the final funeral rites of the 2nd most powerful ruler in Asanteman
The final funeral rites for the late Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, began on Saturday, June 7, 2025, in a solemn and culturally rich ceremony to honour the respected traditional ruler. He was the occupant of the revered Silver Stool and the second most powerful traditional leader in the Asanteman Kingdom.
Locally referred to as Dote Yie, the funeral rites are scheduled to last for three days, ending on Monday, June 9, 2025. These rites mark the final farewell for Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, whose passing was a significant moment not only for the people of Mampong but for the entire Ashanti Region and Ghana at large.
On the first day of the ceremony, many traditional rulers from across Asanteman gathered to pay their last respects. Among the notable chiefs in attendance were Kwahumanhene Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III, Mamponghene Abrempong, Effiduasehene Nana Adu Ameyaw II, and Ejurahene Barima Osei Hwedie II. Their presence underscored the importance of the late Mamponghene within the traditional leadership structure.
Dignitaries from beyond Ghana also graced the occasion. Royals from the Kingdom of Eswatini were present, representing King Mswati III, adding an international dimension to the ceremony and reflecting Daasebre Osei Bonsu’s standing even beyond Ghanaian borders.
One of the most emotional moments during the ceremony came when the late chief’s wife and daughter stepped forward to pay their final respects. Their farewell to Daasebre Osei Bonsu II moved many attendees, as it was a deeply personal and heart-touching scene in an otherwise highly traditional and structured event.
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II was born on December 31, 1939, and passed away at the age of 86. He ruled for 26 years as the Mamponghene, serving faithfully and diligently until his passing. Before becoming a chief, he was known as Saint Oswald Gyimah-Kessie. He was a lawyer and economist by training and later held a prestigious academic position as the Registrar of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
Throughout his reign, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II was admired for his calm diplomacy, leadership, and deep commitment to the development of Mampong and the larger Ashanti Kingdom. He was a unifier who promoted peace and progress in his traditional area, and his influence was felt in national affairs, especially in the field of traditional leadership.
His reign saw numerous developments in education, health, and community infrastructure. He was also instrumental in strengthening the role of traditional rulers within the framework of Ghana’s democratic governance, often working closely with successive governments to promote peace and development.
As Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu held the Silver Stool, a position that made him second in command after the Asantehene in the Ashanti traditional hierarchy. His close working relationship with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II helped to maintain unity and order within the Asanteman Council.
The final rites being performed in his honour reflect the respect and admiration he earned over the years. Chiefs, royals, citizens of Mampong, and people from across the country are expected to continue pouring in to participate in the remaining days of the funeral. These rites include traditional drumming, pouring of libation, ancestral invocations, and cultural displays that celebrate his life and leadership.
As the Dote Yie continues, many are reflecting on the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of humility, wisdom, and devoted service to his people. Daasebre Osei Bonsu II will be remembered not just as a traditional leader, but as a statesman whose contributions have left a lasting mark on Ghana’s chieftaincy institution.
See visuals from the event below: