The King of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is set to leave Ghana this week for a working visit to Poland and Canada, temporarily handing over key responsibilities within Asanteman during his absence.

The Asantehene informed members of the Asanteman Council of the trip during an emergency meeting held at the Manhyia Palace on Monday (25 May). According to details presented at the meeting, the monarch will begin his visit in Poland before continuing to Canada.

The announcement means traditional administration within the Asante Kingdom will temporarily shift to Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu III, who has been tasked with overseeing affairs of Asanteman while the King is away.

The arrangement reflects a long-established system within the Asante traditional structure where senior traditional leaders assume delegated responsibilities during the Asantehene’s absence, ensuring continuity in governance and dispute resolution.

The monarch also moved to reassure individuals with matters pending before the Asanteman Council, many of whom rely on the traditional authority system for adjudication and mediation.

“Our proceedings will resume as soon as I return,” he said, urging parties involved in ongoing cases to remain calm and await the continuation of proceedings.

Meanwhile, administrative oversight of Kumasi has reportedly been assigned to Nana Boadakye Yaw Ababio, the Nkwantakesehene, during the period of the Asantehene’s absence.