President John Agyekum Kufuor is expected to join the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace on Sunday, May 6, to celebrate the 57th birthday of the Ashanti King. The birthday incidentally falls on Akwasidae and the Asantehene is expected to combine the two events in a rare fashion. Traditionally, Akwasidae is not meant for speeches, but since the occasion coincides with his birthday, the Asantehene may make a speech. If that happens, it is expected that Otumfuo will touch on the development of Asanteman and Ghana in general. Traditionally, Akwasidae holds a significant place in the life of Ashantis. It takes place in a 40-day cycle. On those occasions, the Asantehene visits the stool house where certain rituals are performed to invoke ancestral blessings for the people of the land. The Media Relations Manager at the Manhyia Palace, Mr G.B. Osei-Antwi, told the Daily Graphic on Thursday that the occasion would be marked by rich Ashanti culture. He said the Asantehene would sit in state to receive homage from his subjects and other well-wishers. Since his enthronement as the Asantehene in 1999, this is the first time that Otumfuo will celebrate Akwasidae and his birthday simultaneously. Mr Osei-Antwi said all the paramount chiefs from the Ashanti and Brong Ahafo regions serving the Asantehene would be in attendance. Source: Daily Graphic