Accra - Readers of the Independent last year voted Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene as Ghana's Man of the Year 1999 for his contribution to the socio- economic development.

Last Wednesday, April 26, 2000, marked the first anniversary of the enstoolment of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II as the Asantehene.

To mark the occasion, The Asantehene attended a church service in the morning after which a reception was held at the Manhyia Palace.

A delegation of The Independent led by the editor, Kabral Blay-Amihere and comprising of Kojo Larbi, Deputy Editor, Ivor Agyeman Duah, Abena Appiah and Jonathan Gblokpor used the occasion to present Otumfuo his award for being selected by readers of The Independent as MAN OF The YEAR 1999.

Speaking at the ceremony, Kabral said that Otumfuo has within his brief reign rekindled hope in the chieftaincy institution.

According to him the readers who chose Asantehene as the Man of The Year recognised his leadership qualities and commitment to the socio-economic development of Asanteman and Ghana as a whole.

He said the establishment of an educational trust was an exemplary act that stands to benefit the nation.

Music for the occasion was provided by a cultural group and Adomako Nyamekye who outdoored a new song-ASANTEMAN NKOSOO, a tribute to the postive leadership of Otumfuo Osei Tutu.