ASABEEE STEALS THE SPOTLIGHT AT AKWASIDAE AS HE RETURNS TO PUBLIC LIFE WITH HUMBLE MESSAGE TO OTUMFUO

ASABEEE STEALS THE SPOTLIGHT AT AKWASIDAE AS HE RETURNS TO PUBLIC LIFE WITH HUMBLE MESSAGE TO OTUMFUO

Credit:Michael Ofosu-Afriyie, Kumasi

The Manhyia Palace came alive on Sunday as Stephen Asamoah Boateng (Asabeee),former Minister and prominent NPP figure,made a commanding yet elegant appearance at the Akwasidae festival, instantly drawing attention with his radiant red Kente and calm, confident smile.

Arriving hours before the official proceedings, Asabeee’s presence sparked excitement among palace attendees, with pockets of admirers chanting his name as he settled into the forecourt. Seated beside an energetic Brazilian lawyer and philanthropist, who amused onlookers with a playful Superman-like gesture, Asabeee maintained his signature composure while acknowledging greetings from well-wishers.

At exactly 2:30 PM, the atmosphere shifted as Otumfuo Osei Tutu II made his majestic entry, draped in rich, regal cloth befitting the Golden Stool. The Monarch took his seat in state to receive chiefs, dignitaries, government officials, and invited guests.

Shortly after the Ashanti Regional Security Council delegation had paid homage, the Chief Linguist signaled Hon. Asamoah Boateng forward,prompting the former Minister to rise and greet the King with deep reverence.

Addressing the Asantehene, Asabeee expressed sincere appreciation for the opportunity to reconnect, explaining that his absence from recent palace events including the funeral of the late Asantehemaa was due to official duties in South Africa.

He told Otumfuo that after the NPP’s setback in the 2024 elections, he intentionally stepped back from the spotlight to reflect on the state of the party and evaluate how best he could contribute to its rebirth.

“Otumfuo, after our disappointing showing in 2024, I needed time away from the noise,” he admitted.
“I took that period to reflect deeply and to rethink how I can help restructure our party so it becomes stronger and more attractive-before 2028.”

Asabeee, who is eyeing the position of National Chairman of the NPP, assured the King that his renewed energy is focused on helping rebuild the party with better policies, stronger organisation, and a more voter-centered approach.

The occasion ended with warm exchanges, leaving many at Manhyia convinced that Asabeee’s re-emergence signals a new phase in the NPP’s rebuilding journey.