Asantehemaa Burial: Otumfuo’s Chief Executioner Warns Against Nighttime Movement

The Chief Executioner at the Manhyia Palace has issued a stern warning to residents of Kumasi ahead of the burial of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.

In a video, the Manhyia Brafoo reiterated a strict curfew for Thursday, September 18, 2025, the day of Asantehemaa’s burial, cautioning that anyone who violates the curfew will have themselves to blame.

The executioner emphasized the seriousness of the order, stating in the Twi dialect, “We are not joking. We’re not bragging. It is an order. We are saying that on Thursday, stay indoors. If you say you are a man, get out and let us see.”

This warning underscores the importance of adhering to traditional directives during this significant cultural event.

According to Baffour Kantankrankyi, a linguist of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the curfew is intended to ensure public security and safety.

He explained that the preceding rites for the burial might induce possession and frenzy in the traditional executioners, potentially leading to unintended harm to anyone who crosses their path.

The linguist clarified that the Asantehene has encouraged the traditional executioners to exercise restraint in the face of defiance, aiming for an incident-free burial.

“We don’t kill humans. We are law-abiding,” he assured, adding that the directive is meant to prevent individuals from bringing calamity upon themselves.

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has engaged traditional executioners to facilitate a smooth and incident-free burial process. The final funeral rites, which began on September 15, will conclude on September 18, with the burial taking place at Breman Baamu.

Residents across Asanteman have been directed to remain indoors on the night of Thursday, September 18, when the late Asantehemaa will be laid to rest.

This solemn observance underscores the weight of Asante customs surrounding the burial of a queen mother.