The Manhyia Palace has announced that His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, will resume mediation in the protracted Bawku conflict from April 28 to May 1, 2025.
The mediation sessions will take place at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi and are expected to involve all key stakeholders from the conflict-ridden area.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 15, the Palace called for cooperation from all parties, stating: “Asantehene requests all stakeholders to cooperate for us to find a lasting peace in Bawku.”
The resumption of the mediation comes on the heels of renewed violence in Bawku, marked by fatal clashes between youth and law enforcement personnel.
The latest disturbances have led to deaths, injuries, and the vandalization of private property, including the residence of the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga.
The worsening security situation in the area has once again drawn national attention, prompting calls for urgent intervention.
Last week, President John Mahama reaffirmed his government’s support for the Asantehene-led peace efforts, describing it as a credible and inclusive initiative.
Speaking at the Ghana Military Academy graduation ceremony on Friday, April 11, the President said:
“We have triggered the Otumfuo mediation process, which saw all stakeholders participate in discussions in Kumasi on a roadmap towards peace.”
He added that the Asantehene had assured him the process would resume shortly after returning from a brief overseas engagement.
President Mahama expressed concern about the deteriorating security in Bawku, citing a deadly incident in a local market just days before.
“The flashpoint continues to be the Bawku area. Only two days ago, an incident in a marketplace triggered an unfortunate loss of lives and criminal vandalism of properties,” he said.
“I wish to emphasise that nobody gains from this situation of conflict and insecurity.”
Otumfuo’s role as mediator in the Bawku conflict has received national endorsement, owing to his reputation for impartiality and success in brokering peace in other complex disputes.
