Alan Turns Ashanti Yellow, Thanks Asantehene for His Blessing
James Kumi-Korsah
The Ashanti Region was transformed into a sea of yellow on Saturday, October 19, 2024, as hundreds of thousands of supporters joined Mr. Alan Kyerematen for the highly anticipated Afrafranto Mega Victory Walk in Kumasi. The event, which marked the culmination of Mr. Kyerematen’s successful Caravan Campaign Tour in his home region, saw record-breaking participation, with an estimated 80% of attendees being enthusiastic youth. The walk began at the Kumasi Culture Centre, a historic landmark built by his father, Alexander Atta Yaw Kyerematen, before concluding at the Kumasi City Mall in what many political analysts are calling the largest political walk in the history of our dear nation.
Alan Kyerematen used the occasion to express his profound gratitude to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, for granting him permission to hold the event on Asante land. He also thanked the revered King for his continuous support and blessing of the Great Transformational Plan (GTP), which remains the cornerstone of his presidential campaign. Speaking to the massive crowd, Mr. Kyerematen said, “I am standing here today because of the Asante spirit in me. We are Asantes and we are not cowards. When you kill a thousand, a thousand more will come facing you,” referencing the resilience and warrior spirit of the Asante Kingdom that has inspired him throughout his political journey.
The walk attracted unprecedented attention, with many political observers noting that it surpassed all previous political walks Mr. Kyerematen has organized, both in scale and significance. Some believe that this remarkable turnout was largely due to the high-profile open endorsements he received from the Asantehene, and chiefs and prominent figures across the Ashanti Region during his Caravan Campaign Tour. Chiefs like Ejisumanhene, Adansehene, Manwerehene, Offinsomanhene, Adobewurahene, Drobonsohene, Mampongtenhene, and others publicly declared their support for his candidacy, further solidifying his status as the leading contender in the 2024 elections.
The Kumasi Culture Centre, the starting point of the walk, holds deep cultural significance for the people of Asante and for Mr. Kyerematen personally. Built by his father, the Centre symbolizes the preservation of Asante heritage, and its selection as the launchpad for the event was seen as a reflection of Mr. Kyerematen’s strong connection to the roots and traditions of the Ashanti Kingdom. The importance of the Centre in this monumental walk decorated Mr. Kyerematen’s commitment to honoring his lineage while advancing a vision for the future through the GTP.
Political pundits have been quick to note the strategic timing of this event as the 2024 elections draw closer. The outpouring of support, particularly from the youth, is seen as a strong indication of the momentum building behind Mr. Kyerematen’s presidential bid. Many believe that his ability to mobilize such large numbers in the Ashanti Region, coupled with the backing of traditional authorities, has cemented his position as a formidable candidate in what is shaping up to be a closely contested race.
Addressing the crowd after the walk, Mr. Kyerematen spoke candidly about the challenges he has faced along his political journey, though he refrained from providing specifics. He attributed his endurance to the unwavering support of the Asante people and the indomitable spirit of the kingdom. “I am still standing because of the Asante spirit in me,” he declared to resounding applause. His words resonated deeply with the crowd, reinforcing the perception that he is not only a political leader but also a true son of the Asante soil.
The overwhelming success of the Afrafranto Mega Victory Walk has sent a strong message to the political establishment. As the crowd marched from the Culture Centre to the Kumasi City Mall, the streets were lined with supporters waving Asanteman flags, chanting, and singing in celebration of the Afrafranto Movement. The event showcased the strength of Mr. Kyerematen’s grassroots appeal, which many believe will be a decisive factor in the upcoming election.
In conclusion, Mr. Kyerematen once again thanked the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his blessings and the confidence he has placed in him and his Great Transformational Plan. He also expressed gratitude to the people of the Ashanti Region for their unwavering love and support. He emphasized that with the blessing of the Almighty God, the Asantehene, and the support of the people of the Ashanti Region, victory is within reach. As the sun set on Kumasi, it was clear that the Afrafranto Alliance had reached new heights, with Mr. Kyerematen emerging as the clear frontrunner in his quest for the presidency.