Mahama, MPs mourn Asantehemaa [Photos]

16:13 - 18 January 2017

Thousands of mourners filed past her remains at the Manhyia Palace where she has been laid in state.

Former President John Mahama has joined dignitaries at the Manhyia Palace to mark the funeral rites for the late Ashanti queen, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II.

The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, Former Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye as well as Members of Parliament were present at the Manhyia palace.

She will be buried on Thursday night at the Breman Royal Mausoleum (Ban mu) after a brief stopover at the Bantama Royal Mausoleum (Ban mu) where some traditional rites will be performed.

Nana Afia Kobi, the Asante queen, died at the age of 111. She was the biological mother of the reigning king.

The thirteenth queen mother of the Kingdom passed way "peacefully at her palace on Monday November 14, 2016."

Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II "has been the pillar of strength and a source of wisdom behind the transformational reign of His Majesty Otumfour Osei Tutu II.

On Monday, President Nana Akufo-Addo and former President John Kufuor joined hundreds of dignitaries at the palace to pay their respects to the late queen.

Former UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan and British High Commissioner, Jon Benjamin, were also present at the event Monday.

Kufuor in a tribute said, "The Asante belief in reincarnation should explain the close bond of relationship Nana graciously extended to Apagyafie. Thankfully, her son Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and his entire royal family continue to sustain this favour towards Apagya."