Manhyia decides on banning political rallies today

The Manhyia Palace in the Ashanti region will today take a decision as to whether political parties will be allowed to embark on their rallies or otherwise due to the demise of the Asantehemaa ahead of the December polls.

The Palace on Thursday placed a ban on funerals, noisemaking and drumming on the Kumasi metropolis ahead of the funeral rites of the late Queen mother and mother of the Asante King Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II.

Speaking with host of Abusua Nkommo on Abusua FM Kwame Adinkrah, Otumfuo’s Sanaahene Nana Kojo Nyantakyi explained that indigenes can bury their deceased devoid of noise making and drumming.

He stated that they would have buried her but are reluctant due to the elections.

According to him, the Asanteman Traditional Council will meet at the Palace to deliberate on the ban saying politicians just like the traditional authorities are also working for the betterment of the nation.

‘Customs do not allow us to go on drumming, funerals and noisemaking spree due to her death. But we will hold a meeting and later a press conference this morning to let Ghanaians know our stance on political campaigns in the region as we head to the elections due to the ban, because they are also working for the betterment of the country, we cannot deprive them of their work and we cannot also go against tradition so we will decide,’ he said.

He said sympathisers and well wishers are allowed to visit the palace to console with the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the family.

The thirteenth Queen mother who died on November 14, 2016 aged 109.