ASANTEHENE CONCLUDES HIGH-STAKES MEDIATION IN BAWKU CONFLICT, REPORT TO BE SUBMITTED TO PRESIDENT
After nearly nine months of talks, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II wrapped up peace negotiations between the Kusaug and Mamprugu factions, amid heightened security and public optimism at the Manhyia Palace.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has concluded his historic mediation efforts aimed at resolving the protracted and deadly conflict in Bawku, with his final report set to be submitted to President John Dramani Mahama for action.
The final round of talks took place on Monday, December 1, at the Asantehene Jubilee Hall within the Manhyia Palace, under tight security as tensions remained high. The mediation, which spanned nearly nine months, brought together representatives of the feuding Kusaug and Mamprugu ethnic groups in a bid to end years of violence that has claimed numerous lives and destroyed properties.
Outside the palace, supporters from both sides expressed cautious hope. “We are ready to accept the outcome from Otumfuo’s mediation today. We want peace, and that is why we are here,” said Aweni, a Kusaasi supporter. Fuseini, from the Mamprugu side, similarly stated, “We believe peace will be achieved today.”
However, the fragile optimism was briefly disrupted when minor skirmishes broke out among some jubilant supporters outside the palace grounds, prompting a swift response from military and police personnel. The cause of the jubilation was not immediately clear.
President Mahama had personally tasked the Asantehene with leading the peace initiative, recognizing his unique moral authority and diplomatic stature. All parties now await a formal communiqué detailing the outcomes and recommendations from the mediation, which is expected to guide the government’s next steps in restoring lasting peace to Bawku.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
