By:A news Desk Report
The former Constituency Chairman for Afigya Kwabre South in the Ashanti Region, Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah (COKA), has commemorated the 150th anniversary of the Sagrenti War in a grand style.
Arriving at the Manhyia Palace with a huge entourage to grace the Kuntunkuni durbar to officially commemorate the 150th anniversary of the war on Thursday, 8th February 2024, he was clad in a black ‘batakari’ cloth.
Chairman Kwaku Appiah, who is a staunch member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has demonstrated great dedication and commitment towards the progress of Asanteman over the years.
He was delighted to witness the return of the regalia of Asanteman which was taken from them during the Sagrenti War exactly 150 years ago.
Background
As part of events scheduled to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, a symposium was held to commemorate the anniversary of the war that led to the signing of the Treaty of Fomena.
Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah (COKA)
This year marks exactly 150 years since British forces looted the Asante Palace, made away with priceless regalia and completely burnt down the palace and Kumasi under the command of Sir Garnet Wolseley.
As an add-on, a book about the history of the Asantes was launched. The book was authored by Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II and edited by Prof. Tom McCaskie.
The British Museum is expected to return some stolen regalia during the Akwasidae durbar on May 12, 2024.
In a keynote address, Prof. Tom McCaskie commended Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for advocating the return of the stolen regalia. He further stated that not only was the regalia taken, the British also looted gold and gold dust from the then Asantehene, Otumfuo Kofi Karikari. He added that the value of the gold is worth more than £2 billion.
He noted that although the then Asante Kingdom was defeated, it was not annexed. He disclosed that Sir Garnet Wolseley’s decision to loot the Asante Palace and burn it down was in line with his personal ambition to lead the British army.
