On April 26, 1999, Barima Kwaku Duah, as he was then known, took the Busumuru sword and with his kuntunkuni cloth dropped to his waist, swore the customary oath to the chiefs of Asanteman. The event was witnessed by thousands of Asantes and other well-wishers.

It was at the occasion that he adopted the name Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. He is a direct descendant of the 17th-century founder of the Asante Kingdom, Osei Tutu I.

However, the Silver Jubilee anniversary will be marked on Akwasidaekese on June 12 at Dwabrem, Manhyia Palace.

To herald the day, there were spectacular fireworks in Kumasi last night, which was witnessed by Otumfuo.