President John Mahama has announced that the Otumfuo-led mediation process aimed at resolving the protracted Bawku conflict will resume next week, following assurances from the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Speaking at the graduation parade of the Ghana Military Academy on Friday, April 11, the President said the Asantehene would reconvene stakeholders upon his return from a brief trip abroad to continue the dialogue toward lasting peace.
“We have triggered the Otumfuo mediation process, which saw all stakeholders participate in discussions in Kumasi on a roadmap towards peace. I am assured by the Asantehene that the process will commence next week when he returns,” President Mahama announced.
He called on all parties involved in the conflict to renew their commitment to peace.“I entreat all sides to embrace peace as we dialogue to resolve these age-old disputes,” he urged.
President Mahama condemned the recent spate of violence in Bawku, citing an incident at a marketplace two days prior that resulted in fatalities and property destruction.
“Nobody gains from this situation of conflict and insecurity,” he said.
He praised the Ghana Armed Forces for their role in maintaining security in the volatile region.
“Congratulations to our Armed Forces for the sacrifices, even at the peril of your lives, to protect lives and property in the Bawku conflict area. We need the cooperation of all to restore peace in Bawku and its environs,” he added.
The President also outlined his administration’s commitment to enhancing the operational readiness of the military. Plans include increased investment in modern equipment, simulators, advanced training, and improved barracks accommodation.
“In resetting our nation to build the Ghana we want, my government will aggressively pursue the ideas of operational and combat readiness. We will resource the Ghana Armed Forces with better equipment and rapid deployment capabilities,” he said.
Wearing Ghana Navy fatigues as a symbol of solidarity, the President pledged to uphold merit-based promotions within the military and expand opportunities for non-commissioned officers.
He also reaffirmed Ghana’s strong peacekeeping record, noting that the country has deployed 23.3% female staff officers and military observers—well above the UN benchmark of 14.21%.
On national security, President Mahama issued a stern warning against false and politically motivated allegations.
Addressing recent claims about drug trafficking and money laundering on international flights, he said:
“We will take all allegations of crime seriously and trigger our security service investigative machinery to go after criminals no matter who they are. But let me state emphatically also that we do not have the resources and time to engage in any game of smoke and mirrors.”
He emphasised that his government would not tolerate attempts to mislead the public or authorities for political advantage.
