No show at Aboakyer festival

A large number of people including government officials and chiefs who visited the Zion Park at Winneba to witness the arrival of a captured life deer as part of the Aboakyer festival were disappointed.

The two Asafo companies sent the captured animals to the Otuano House instead of the durbar ground.

The Tuafo No. 1 Asafo Company was the first to bring its catch to the town at about 0900 hours.

This was followed by the Dentsefo No Two Asafo Company.

At the time, the Central Regional Minister, Mr Aquinas Tawiah Quansah was delivering his address, the captured deer was not on ground.

In April, the Omanhene of Effutu, Neenyi Ghartey VII, in a statement declared his intention to participate in this year’s festival.

A week later, the two Asafo companies in another statement stated that the festival could be celebrated peaceful if only the Omanhene distances himself from the celebration.

The Aboakyer festival, which has gained international recognition has been affected by prolonged chieftaincy dispute, resulting in past celebrations attracting heavy police presence.

The first deer to be brought to the durbar ground is used for rituals believed to bring peaceful and rapid development to the traditional area.