The Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has appointed Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to lead a delegation of prominent chiefs in mediating the long-standing chieftaincy conflict in Bawku, Upper East Region.
This strategic move aims to address the dispute between the two traditional leaders vying for the Bawku throne.
Chieftaincy Minister Stephen Asamoah Boateng emphasized that security agencies are working to manage the situation, while the mediation team facilitates dialogue between the rival factions.
However, he cautioned locals against politicizing the conflict. The Bawku conflict has claimed eight lives and numerous properties in recent violence, following the return of rival chief Alhaji Seidu after his exile.
The area is currently under curfew, with a heavy security presence attempting to maintain control.
JoyNews’ Upper East Regional correspondent Albert Sore reported that despite the security presence, residents feel unsafe and are staying indoors.
The conflict has persisted for over 65 years, fueled by politics, ethnicity, land, and chieftaincy issues.
The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) has welcomed Otumfuo’s initiative, citing the success of his mediation in the Dagbon case.
FOSDA urges all parties to approach the mediation process in good faith, seeking an amicable resolution.
