Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, the occupant of the Silver Stool in Asanteman and the paramount chief of Mampong, has died.
He died at the age of 86.
In line with Asante culture, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was formally informed of the passing of Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, the occupant of the Silver Stool.
A delegation from the Mampong Traditional Council, led by Mamponghemaa Nana Agyakomaa Difie II and Ejurahene Barima Osei Hwedie II, paid a visit to Manhyia Palace on April 28, 2025.
Barely two weeks ago, Daasebre Oei Bonsu made the news after giving a 24-hour ultimatum to the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in his area to retract an alleged anti-Asante comment that they had infamously made and charged them to render an unqualified apology over their weird statement that they would not allow an Asante man to be appointed as Mampong Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).
Known in private life as Saint Oswald Gyimah-Kessie, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II was born to Mary Gyimah of Botaase Bretuo Royal Family of Asante Mampong on 31st December, 1938.
Until his demise, he served as the Paramount Chief (Mamponghene) of the Asante-Mampong Traditional Area since his enstoolment on August 25, 1996. He also served as the Vice President of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs.
Daasebre Osei Bonsu II received his early education at Prempeh College and later attended the University of Ghana, Legon, where he graduated in 1972 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics, political science, and modern history.
Following his graduation, he embarked on a career at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), starting as an assistant registrar in 1972. Through dedication and hard work, he rose through the ranks to become the Registrar of KNUST in 1991, a position he held until his retirement in 2000, marking 28 years of service to the university.
Upon his enstoolment as Mamponghene in 1996, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II assumed significant responsibilities within the Asante Kingdom. Notably, following the passing of Otumfuo Opoku Ware II in 1999, he served as the Regent of the Asante Kingdom from February 25 to April 26, 1999, overseeing traditional affairs until the installation of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Throughout his reign, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II was instrumental in promoting peace and development within the Mampong Traditional Area. His tenure was marked by stability, with no significant chieftaincy disputes reported. He championed educational initiatives, including sponsoring numerous underprivileged but brilliant students in the region. Additionally, he was a vocal advocate against illegal mining (galamsey), taking proactive measures to prevent such activities within his jurisdiction.
In recognition of his contributions, the chiefs and queen mothers of the Asante-Mampong Traditional Area unveiled a statue in his honour in January 2023, celebrating his 26-year reign and commitment to development.
