The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has completed a key phase of his mediation efforts in the long-standing Bawku chieftaincy crisis, following a landmark face-to-face meeting between the two rival factions at the Manhyia Palace Jubilee Hall in Kumasi.
The engagement, held after several months of separate consultations, marked the first direct interaction between the factions since Otumfuo assumed the role of mediator in the conflict.
Two Delegations Meet Under Otumfuo’s Mediation
A 30-member delegation led by Chief Tarana John Wuni Grumah, Paramount Chief of the Tarana Traditional Area and spokesperson for the Naayiri, represented His Majesty Naa Bohugu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, Overlord of Mamprugu and leader of the Mamprusi.
The opposing delegation was headed by Naba Tambis Baalug, Paramount Chief of Pusiga, representing the Bawku Naba Zugraan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II and the Kusasi.
Former MP Cletus Avoka served as spokesperson for the Kusasi, while Dr. Issah spoke for the Naayiri and Mamprusi.
Both teams included prominent chiefs, lawyers, academics, opinion leaders, and youth leaders.
A Pivotal Dialogue After Months of Separate Hearings
Monday’s meeting followed months of behind-the-scenes engagements, during which Otumfuo listened to each faction independently.
The face-to-face encounter was therefore a decisive attempt to secure direct dialogue and pave the way for a lasting resolution to a conflict that has undermined peace in Bawku for years.
According to Manhyia Palace, the meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere, with both sides acknowledging that they are essentially one people who should not be at war.
Asantehene Calls for Maturity and Preparation for Peace
Otumfuo commended both delegations for their maturity and civility throughout the mediation process. He reminded them that regardless of the final outcome, they would have to coexist peacefully as brothers and sisters.
He urged the leaders to begin preparing their supporters psychologically for peace and to commit to ending violence and disorder permanently within their communities.
Final Report to Be Submitted to President Mahama
The Asantehene announced that he will submit a detailed report, along with his recommendations, to President John Dramani Mahama in the coming days.
He expressed hope that the President would act expeditiously by convening all stakeholders to communicate the final outcome of the mediation process.
