Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II says all parties in the Bawku conflict must commit to and obey the mediation report he presented to President John Dramani Mahama on Dec. 16.
Speaking at Jubilee House, the Asantehene stressed that his role was mediation, not arbitration, and that he would not issue judgments on who was right or wrong.
“I’m here not to give a judgement as to who was wrong or right. I am here to present the facts as they are for us to have peace,” he said. “It is almost about two and a half years since your predecessor invited me to mediate in a major conflict in Bawku that had become a major threat to the security of the nation. I report the facts as they are and it should be binding on all of us, whoever is involved.”
The Asantehene noted that Mahama reaffirmed the mandate of the Bawku mediation shortly after assuming office.
“Almost a year ago, the people of Ghana handed the mandate of the governance of Ghana to you, Your Excellency, and you wasted no time in reaffirming the mandate of the Bawku mediation,” he said. “By the Grace of God, we are able to assemble here to present to Your Excellency the report of the mission you entrusted to us. We present the report for your kind consideration and whatever action you and your government consider appropriate.”
Otumfuo expressed gratitude to Mahama and former President Nana Akufo-Addo for entrusting him with the task of restoring peace in Bawku.
On Dec. 1, he concluded his mediation effort with a face-to-face meeting between the contending parties at the Manhyia Palace Jubilee Hall in Kumasi.
Chief Tarana John Wuni Grumah, Paramount Chief of the Tarana Traditional Area, led a 30-member delegation representing the Naayiri and the Mamprugu people. Naba Tambis Baalug, Paramount Chief of Pusiga, led the delegation representing Bawku Naaba Zugraan Asigri Aburgrago Azoka II and the Kusasi people. Hon. Cletus Avoka spoke for the Kusasi delegation, while Dr. Issah represented the Naayiri and Mamprusis. Both delegations included chiefs, lawyers, academics, opinion leaders and youth leaders.
The Asantehene praised both sides for their civility and urged them to prepare their supporters to permanently end violence and disorder.
“Whatever the outcome of the mediation, they would have to live together as brothers and sisters,” he said.
