Former President, John Dramani Mahama, made a grand appearance at the 3rd Akwasidae festival for 2023, held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi. The festival, which is celebrated every six weeks on a Sunday, commemorates the magical descent of the Ashanti Golden Stool from heaven.
Mahama arrived at the event in the company of several leading figures from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), including the Ashanti Regional chairman of the party, Augustus Andrew Nana Kwasi, former Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Betty Mould Iddrisu, former Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Professional Studies, Joshua Alabi.
The former president was warmly received by chiefs and queens who greeted him in lines, and the crowd cheered him on. A video of the event shared by Opemsuo Radio showed the former president being mobbed by chiefs and the enthusiastic crowd.
For the most part, the festival was a display of rich Ashanti cultural heritage, with various traditional performances, including drumming and dancing. The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, sat in state to receive homage from his subjects and other visitors.
The festival is observed by every paramount chief in the Asanteman (Ashanti Kingdom) in their own jurisdiction, with the main event held at the Manhyia Palace. It is a time for the people to reflect on their cultural identity and heritage.
Former President Mahama’s appearance at the festival is a sign of his deep connection to the Ashanti people, and his commitment to preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage. It is also an opportunity for him to engage with the people and strengthen his political support in the region.
In conclusion, the 3rd Akwasidae festival for 2023 was a colorful and vibrant celebration of Ashanti culture, with Former President Mahama making a grand entrance that further underscored the importance of the festival. As Ghana continues to evolve, it is important to preserve and celebrate its rich cultural heritage.
Source: Peacefm online.