His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, has completed a crucial stage of his mediation efforts in the long-standing Bawku chieftaincy crisis, bringing the two disputing factions together for a historic face-to-face dialogue at the Jubilee Hall of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
The meeting, held today, marked the first time in several months that representatives of the Mamprugu and Kusasi groups sat across from each other under the guidance of the Asantehene, after previously meeting with him separately to present their arguments and perspectives.
A 30-member delegation led by Chief Tarana John Wuni Grumah, Paramount Chief of the Tarana Traditional Area, represented His Majesty Naa Bohugu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, the Naayiri and Overlord of Mamprugu and the Mamprusis. Their spokesperson for the session was Dr. Issah.
On the other side, Naba Tambis Baalug, Paramount Chief of Pusiga, led the delegation representing Bawku Naaba Zugraan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II and the Kusasi people, with Hon. Cletus Avoka serving as spokesperson. Both delegations included chiefs, lawyers, academics, opinion leaders and youth representatives.
According to the Asantehene’s Chief of Staff, Kofi Badu, the atmosphere throughout the meeting was cordial, with both sides acknowledging their shared heritage and affirming that there was no justification for continued conflict between them. Participants reportedly engaged with mutual respect and demonstrated a willingness to pursue lasting peace.
His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II commended both delegations for their maturity, civility, and commitment to dialogue. He reminded them that regardless of the outcome of the mediation process, they would continue to coexist as one people and must therefore prioritize peace over division.
He further urged the leaders of both factions to begin conscientizing their supporters to accept peaceful solutions and to permanently renounce violence and disorder in their communities.
The Asantehene announced that he would finalize and submit his comprehensive report—including recommendations and proposals—to President John Dramani Mahama in the coming days. He expressed hope that the President would swiftly convene a formal meeting of all stakeholders to communicate the final outcomes of the mediation mission.
The latest developments mark a significant step toward restoring lasting peace in the Bawku traditional area, which has for years been affected by tensions rooted in chieftaincy disputes.
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