Discussions Between Asantehene and British Museum Over Return of Priceless Gold Items
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and the British Museum are engaging in negotiations regarding the repatriation of invaluable gold artifacts currently held by the museum. As reported by the BBC, the Asantehene’s visit to the UK coincided with the coronation of King Charles III and marked the first conversation between the Asantehene and Dr. Fischer, the museum’s director.
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Among the extensive collection of antiquities housed in the British Museum are several pieces seized from the Asante palace in Kumasi during the British War of 1874. Recognizing the historical and cultural significance of these items to the Asante people, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed his desire to preserve the antiques that once belonged to his ancestors. The British Museum has confirmed that it is currently exploring the possibility of lending artifacts from its collection to Ghana, according to a spokesperson for the institution interviewed by the BBC.
“The museum’s director and deputy director were pleased to welcome His Royal Majesty Osei Tutu II, also known as the Asantehene, during his visit to the UK for King Charles III’s coronation.
“The British Museum is exploring the possibility of lending items from the collection to mark the 150th anniversary of the end of the third Anglo-Asante war, as well as to support celebrations for the Asantehene’s Silver Jubilee next year,” she told the BBC.
During the coronation ceremony of King Charles in London, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was in attendance, while President Akufo-Addo and the First Lady were dressed in formal suits. Otumfuo Osei Tutu and Lady Julia, on the other hand, wore custom Kente attire, showcasing their cultural heritage.
In a related context, John Dramani Mahama, former President of Ghana, praised the brilliance and international prominence of Asantehene Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II. At a recent Akwasaidae event, Mahama commended Otumfuo for his greatness, referring to the invitation he received to attend the coronation of the new King of England, which he conveyed through a translator.
“He (Mahama) knows of your greatness. To the extent that the King of England has invited you to his coronation. People may not know, but he knows of your greatness,” the linguist said as Mahama stood with his head slightly bowed for most of the time.
“He prays that God will take you and bring you back safely and that you continue your progressive steps for Ghana and Asanteman. He came to wish you well, celebrate Akwasidae with you, and seek God’s strength for you, so that you may forever live with them forever,” the linguist added.
