3 hours ago
Asantehene Leads Eminent Chiefs in Mediation Efforts to Restore Peace in Bawku
The government, through the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has announced the appointment of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, along with other distinguished traditional leaders, to lead mediation efforts in the ongoing Bawku chieftaincy dispute. This strategic intervention aims to address the long-standing conflict in Bawku, a key area in the Upper East Region, which has experienced renewed tensions in recent months.
Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, expressed the government’s commitment to finding a peaceful resolution through dialogue and traditional leadership. The mediation team, spearheaded by the Asantehene, brings together a wealth of experience and wisdom in resolving chieftaincy disputes, underscoring the critical nature of this engagement.
The decision follows the recent resurgence of tensions, attributed to the return of a rival claimant to the Bawku skin, Alhaji Seidu, who had been previously exiled. With tensions simmering, security agencies have been actively monitoring the situation to prevent further escalations, ensuring the safety of residents and facilitating a conducive atmosphere for the mediation process.
During a recent visit to Bawku, members of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) – including leaders with local connections and deep ties to the community – have emphasized collaboration with security agencies and encouraged intelligence-sharing to maintain order. Naaba Abugragu II, the Bawku Naba, commended the efforts of REGSEC and expressed appreciation for the support of both the government and traditional authorities in their dedication to peace and stability.
As the Asantehene and the delegation prepare to engage with stakeholders, Minister Asamoah Boateng has advised residents to refrain from politicizing the mediation process. He emphasized the importance of community support for the mediation team’s work, which seeks to address root causes and find a sustainable resolution that respects the cultural heritage of Bawku’s people.
The involvement of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and other eminent chiefs highlights a critical juncture in Bawku’s history. The people of Bawku and the entire Kusaug Region hold hope that this intervention will bring lasting peace, allowing the region to thrive without the shadow of conflict. The path ahead may require patience and dialogue, but the resolve of the Asantehene-led mediation team is seen as a beacon of hope for all who yearn for unity and harmony in Bawku.