The Paramount Chief of the Asante Mampong Traditional Area, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II has been confirmed dead at the age of 86. Sources at the Mampong Palace in the Ashanti Region indicate that he died peacefully after a short illness.
In line with customs and traditions, the Bretuo Royal family and the Mampong Traditional Council on Monday 28th April 2025 went to Manhyia to officially inform His Royal Majesty, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II of his passing away.
This signified the official announcement of the death of Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, the occupant of the Silver Stool of the Asante Kingdom to the people of the Mampong Traditional Area, the Asanteman and the rest of the world.
He was known in private life as Saint Oswald Gyimah-Kessie. Dassebre Osei Bonsu was born on December 31, 1939, to the late Mr. Kessie and Mrs. Mary Gyimah.
He pursued an illustrious academic career, attending Prempeh College in Kumasi and later graduating from the University of Ghana, Legon with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics, Political Science, and Modern History.
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II subsequently earned a Bachelor of Laws degree with honors (LL.B. Hons) in Law from the University of Ghana, further augmenting his academic credentials and expertise.
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II held various distinguished positions, including: Assistant Accountant, Ghana Commercial Bank, Assistant Clerk of the National Assembly, Ghana Parliament (1971), Assistant Registrar (1972) and subsequently Registrar (1991), at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
His career exemplified administrative acumen and progressive leadership.
Subsequently, his distinguished career trajectory transitioned from academia to esteemed traditional leadership, wherein he assumed a revered role within the esteemed hierarchy of the Ashanti Kingdom, distinguished by his wisdom, leadership acumen, and cultural stewardship.
Enstooled as Mamponghene on August 25, 1996, succeeding his uncle, Nana Atakora Amaniampong II, he served with distinction as Vice President of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs, playing pivotal roles in maintaining peace and fostering development in the Mampong Traditional Area, while contributing significantly to the Ashanti Kingdom through his exemplary diplomacy and unwavering dedication.Under the illustrious leadership of Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, Mamponghene, the traditional area underwent significant transformation, driven by his pioneering spirit, visionary acumen, and unwavering commitment to progress, ultimately leaving an indelible mark on the annals of history.
During the 29-year reign, he brought significant development to the Mampong Traditional Area and was recognized for maintaining peace and stability,
Notably, he reigned without experiencing any chieftaincy disputes, a proud achievement in the history of the area. Records indicate that he remained the only Paramount Chief installed in Mampong since 1930 under whom the Mampong Traditional Area did not witness any chieftaincy dispute or litigations, which is attributed chiefly to the way he handled issues.
He is also credited to have played instrumental role in facilitating the establishment of several developmental and infrastructural projects in the Mampong Municipality of the Ashanti Region over the years.
He passed into eternity at the venerable age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, leadership, and devotion.
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II is survived by his wife, Mrs. Janet Dorothy Gyimah-Kessie, and their daughter, Dr. Naana Mary Gyimah-Kessie, who is a medical practitioner.
Story by:
EMMANUEL AKWASI WIAFE-BOATENG
INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MAMPONG-ASHANTI
