Why Otumfuo cried in public

It is uncommon sight to witness traditional leaders, especially paramount chiefs, display public emotion, as it is considered a sign of weakness. Chiefs are expected to maintain a composed and stoic demeanor, regardless of the situation, while fulfilling their duties for the welfare of their people. This cultural expectation emphasizes strength and resilience in leadership.

However, there have been occasions when powerful traditional leaders have broken this norm and shown vulnerability in public. When such moments occur, their subjects often intervene to protect their dignity. One notable instance happened in November 2023, when the Paramount Chief of Goaso, Nana Akwasi Bosompra, was moved to tears while lamenting the lack of development in his communities. Palace aides quickly stepped in to shield him from public view.

Even the highly respected Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has experienced moments of emotional vulnerability. During a durbar organized by the Ga State, he became visibly emotional, and his subjects acted swiftly to ensure that the public did not witness the rare sight of their king shedding tears.

A video shared on social media recently highlighted this emotional side of the Asantehene. It showed Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in tears during the burial of his mother, the late Asantehemaa Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem. The moment, captured by Banadahene TV and shared by the Asante Nation, revealed a rare glimpse of the king’s humanity.

The caption accompanying the video read: “He is human. As human as he is, the day grief shadowed his soul, he shed a tear as a human being would. The night his mother, his first love, Asantehemaa Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem, was laid in state. Emotions make us all human.”