The Asantehene, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has been officially informed of the death of Mr Stephen Kwabena Kesse Esq, Chief Executive of Kessben Group of Companies, as the company opens a book of condolence in Kumasi on Friday (21 August).

Kessben Group announced in a press statement dated 20 August 2026 that Lawyer Stephen Boateng, also known as Kwabena Kesse, passed away on Wednesday 19th August 2026 in Kumasi following a short illness.

“It is with profound sorrow that the Management of Kessben Group of Companies… announce the passing of its President/ Founder/ Chief Executive Officer; LAWYER STEPHEN BOATENG (aka Kwabena Kesse / Kessben) who passed on Wednesday 19 August,2026 following a short period of illness in Kumasi,” the statement said.

The conglomerate comprises Kessben Media, Kessben Travel and Tours, Fosuah Hotel, Kessben Driving School, Kessben Shipping and Freight Forwarding, Aseda Clinic, Transit World, Aseda Insurance Brokerage and Kessben University College.

The company said it mourns the “tragic loss” and extended condolences to his family, church, legal fraternity and “wider social associates.”

It said a book of condolence was opened at his residence in Denyame, Kumasi from 9am on Thursday 21st August, 2026 to allow the public to sign.

Dates for the one week observation and final funeral rites will be announced later, the statement added.

The family has requested privacy and solemnity during the period of mourning.

Boateng was a prominent media entrepreneur in the Ashanti Region and was widely known for his radio and television stations under the Kessben brand.

News of his passing has drawn tributes from across the political and business community in Kumasi and beyond.