Conflicts often begin quietly – what I term “undercurrent.” Those who have studied conflict management would recognize this as the “Latent” stage of conflict, the first of the five known stages. At this point, the issues have not fully surfaced, but one can clearly sense the underlying tensions and triggers that could eventually lead to open conflict.
In my view, this is the most crucial stage. The early signs must be identified and addressed head-on, and dealt with proactively, to prevent escalation. I dare say it is the worst stage of conflict. Unfortunately, most conflict managers overlook this stage because the brewing or buried tensions often never make it to the open. But when they do, they tend to erupt suddenly, without warning or signal. Rwanda remains a chilling case study.
Currently in Ghana, conflict managers appear quiet, hypocritically silent, or perhaps waiting to make some financial gain out of one such latent conflict: that between the Ashantis and the Dormaahene. I deliberately restrict it to Dormaa because, interestingly, it seems not all Bonos are directly involved; many are only being dragged into the matter because of how it is being framed and propagated.
We can all agree that chieftaincy and ethnic conflicts can be likened to religious or belief-based conflicts. In Ghana, the Ashantis are arguably the most powerful and influential ethnic group, with authority and recognition extending beyond Ghana’s borders. We have all observed, in recent times, the depth of their influence in governance, diplomacy, and even international recognition.
We have also witnessed the deep love, loyalty, and trust the people of Ashanti place in their King and the Golden Stool. This reverence can be compared to the profound respect that Muslims and Christians have for their respective faiths and scriptures. An attack on the King of Ashanti or their sacred heritage, the Golden Stool, is perceived as a grave offense, much like how any affront to revered religious symbols or texts, such as the Holy Quran or the Bible, is regarded with seriousness and deep emotion. To attempt to discredit or disrespect the Golden Stool is to provoke the deepest sensitivities of the Ashanti people. Just imagine, for a moment, the potential consequences of such an act.
If the country, along with those tasked with peace and conflict management, turns a blind eye to what is happening, the risks could be severe. The persistent attacks, misinformation, and attempts by the Dormaahene to discredit and downplay the sacred Golden Stool of the Ashanti Kingdom should be condemned without reservation by all voices, including the Peace Council, publicly and decisively.
The cost of open condemnation and timely rebuke is nothing compared to the cost of future escalation, should the Ashantis one day rise in defence of their king, kingdom, and sacred heritage. Rwanda began with words broadcast on radio. We must not allow social media to spark another Rwanda anywhere else in the world.
Speaking truth to power is an integral part of conflict management. Ghana’s history cannot be told without acknowledging the rich legacy of the Ashanti Kingdom and the symbolism of the Golden Stool. Any attempt to discredit this heritage does not only diminish the Ashanti identity but also undermines Ghana’s collective national history. The two are deeply intertwined and inseparable.
It is, therefore, regrettable that the Dormaahene chose the wrong platform to advance such a claim. Instead of using the occasion to celebrate the culture, history, and people of the Bono Traditional Area, he diverted attention to a divisive narrative. This platform should have been a stage to highlight Bono’s unique heritage, showcase its tourism potential, and attract investment and global recognition.
By missing this opportunity, the chance to harness the cultural, economic, and developmental benefits that such visibility brings was lost. Ghana thrives when every traditional area projects its strengths in unity, not in attempts to erase or diminish the history of others.
By Nana Yaw Sarpong
