International Relations and Security Analyst Irbad Ibrahim has expressed concern about the lack of direct engagement between the feuding chiefs in the ongoing mediation of the Bawku conflict.
In an interview on Morning Target on Bullet TV, he commended the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his mediation efforts but argued that a physical meeting between the Kusaase and Mamprusi chiefs would have sent a far stronger message of unity and reconciliation.
“There was no face-to-face encounter between the two feuding chiefs, Naa Sheriga for the Mamprusis and Naa Abugrago for the Kusaases. Those two chiefs have not sat across the same table”. He said.
“It would have been if yesterday passed out or passed off with the Otumfour sandwiched between the Kusaase chief and the Mamprusi chief”. He noted, adding “That would have best image to have come out of this mediation effort. That didn’t happen and I’m told there hasn’t been any physical meeting between the two chiefs”
Mr. Ibrahim described the reliance on delegations rather than direct participation of the chiefs as a “serious deficiency” in the process, stressing that the two leaders are the most critical actors in resolving the conflict.
Drawing parallels with the Ukraine-Russia war, he noted that even in that high-stakes conflict, world leaders such as the U.S. President have met individually with both Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Vladimir Putin, with efforts underway to bring them together.
He therefore urged the Otumfuo to ensure that, at some stage, the feuding chiefs meet face-to-face, insisting that such a symbolic gesture would carry immense weight in advancing peace in Bawku.
The Asantehene has been entrusted by President John Dramani Mahama to spearhead renewed efforts toward resolving the decades‑old conflict, is expected to formally present the outcome of the mediation process to the President in the coming days
