Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Awentami Paul Afoko, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.
He extolled the maternal stature of the deceased and described her death as a profound loss to Asanteman and the nation at large.
In a statement issued on August 11, 2025 Mr. Afoko reflected on the recent wave of bereavements within the Ashanti Kingdom, noting that the death of the Queen Mother follows the loss of two prominent chiefs and a linguist.
He described the passing as a “devastating blow” to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who has now lost his only surviving sister and traditional mother.
“I have learnt with a heavy heart of the passing of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III. I am particularly saddened by such a devastating blow to the Otumfuo,” he said.
Mr. Afoko also recalled the honour extended to him earlier this year when the Asantehene sent a high-level delegation to attend the funeral of his late father in Sandema, in the Upper East Region.
He joined a broad chorus of mourners—including politicians, business leaders, religious figures, and traditional authorities who have paid tribute to the legacy of the Asantehene and the late Queen Mother.
“Nana Otumfuo, me ma wo due, due ne amanehunu. Due Damirifa Due” — to wit: “Otumfuo, I extend my deepest sympathies to you in your grief and hardship. Farewell, may she rest in peace.”
