Bawku Mediation: “We Are One People, No Reason for War” – Kusasi and Mamprusi Leaders Declare

His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, today concluded his months-long mediation in the Bawku chieftaincy dispute with a historic face-to-face meeting at the Manhyia Palace Jubilee Hall, Kumasi.

Chief Tarana John Wuni Grumah, Paramount Chief of the Tarana Traditional Area, led a 30-member delegation on behalf of His Majesty Naa Bohugu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, Naayiri and Overlord of the Mamprusi people.

Representing the Bawku Naaba Zugraan Asigri Aburgrago Azoka II and the Kusasi people was Naba Tambis Baalug, Paramount Chief of Pusiga, with Hon. Cletus Avoka acting as spokesperson.

Both delegations included chiefs, lawyers, academics, opinion leaders, and youth representatives. Dr. Issah served as spokesperson for the Naayiri and Mamprusis.

The meeting, following months of separate consultations by the Asantehene, allowed both sides to speak directly to each other in a final effort to resolve the longstanding disputes that have undermined peace in the Bawku Traditional Area.

In a unified message, both delegations emphasized that they are “one people” with no reason to be at war with each other. The leaders called for an end to hostilities and stressed the need for mutual respect and brotherhood among the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities.

His Majesty praised both parties for their civility and maturity and reminded them that, regardless of the outcome of the mediation, they would continue to live together as brothers and sisters. He urged community leaders to prepare their supporters to embrace lasting peace and an end to violence.

The Asantehene announced that he would submit his mediation report, including proposals, to President John Dramani Mahama in the coming days. He expressed hope that the President would convene a formal meeting of all stakeholders to announce the outcome of the mediation.

Kofi Badu, Chief of Staff at Manhyia Palace, issued the official statement to all media houses.