The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has paid a courtesy call on His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, at the Manhyia Palace to convey Parliament’s sympathies and solidarity following the passing of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.

The visit, which took place on Wednesday, October 15, was to personally extend condolences on behalf of Parliament, as the Speaker was unable to attend the final funeral rites of the late Queen Mother.

The Speaker was accompanied by a parliamentary delegation including the Second Deputy Speaker, Hon. Andrew Asiamah Amoako; the Majority Chief Whip, Hon. Rockson-Nelson Etse Dafeamekpor; the Deputy Minority Leader, Hon. Patricia Appeagyei; the Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahuma Djietror; and senior staff of the Parliamentary Service.

In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Bagbin expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Asantehemaa, describing her as a revered matriarch whose wisdom, grace, and moral authority shaped both Asanteman and the wider Ghanaian society.

He lauded her lifelong dedication to preserving tradition and offering guidance to successive generations, noting that her legacy would remain etched in the nation’s cultural and historical memory.

“The passing of the Asantehemaa is not only a great loss to Asanteman but to the entire nation. Her counsel and dignity enriched our collective identity as Ghanaians,” the Speaker said.

He reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to upholding peace, good governance, and legislative reforms that advance national development and social cohesion.

In response, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Speaker and his delegation for the gesture of sympathy and for Parliament’s continued solidarity.

He commended the institution for its vital role in strengthening Ghana’s democracy and urged Members of Parliament to remain dedicated to their service to the nation.

As a symbol of goodwill and recognition of Parliament’s place in Ghana’s democratic journey, the Asantehene pledged to donate a newly handwoven kente cloth to adorn the Debating Chamber.

The new fabric will replace the existing one, which was gifted by His Majesty over two decades ago, in a move that underscores efforts to preserve Ghanaian culture within the country’s legislative traditions.

Parliament is expected to reconvene on Tuesday, 21 October, to resume its sittings and continue deliberations in pursuit of the aspirations of the Ghanaian people.