Rival factions in the long-standing Bawku chieftaincy conflict have arrived in Kumasi ahead of a decisive mediation session to be led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace this weekend.
The two groups—representatives of the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities—travelled separately under heavy security escort from Bawku to the Ashanti Regional capital. Their arrival marks what authorities describe as the most advanced and crucial stage of the ongoing peace process.
A Historic Window for Peace
The talks, scheduled for November 30 and December 1, are being framed by both the Manhyia Palace and the National Peace Council (NPC) as the final session in a structured mediation effort that many observers believe presents the strongest opportunity in years to resolve the decades-old dispute.
The Bawku conflict, rooted in a protracted chieftaincy disagreement between the Kusasi and Mamprusi, dates back to the colonial era. Once a vibrant trading hub in the Upper East Region, Bawku has endured repeated cycles of violence resulting in loss of lives, displacement, disruption of health and education services, and weakened economic activity.
Despite multiple curfews and heavy security deployments over the years, a lasting settlement has remained elusive.
Manhyia Mediation Reaches Its Critical Stage
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II intensified his involvement in recent years following renewed hostilities during the administrations of former Presidents Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and John Dramani Mahama. A surge in violence—including the deaths of two police officers and a soldier—triggered widespread calls for the Asantehene’s intervention.
Since then, Otumfuo has held several high-level engagements with both factions, alternating between separate and joint meetings. His calm, neutral, and firm mediation style has earned praise from the NPC, which has described the process as “the most credible path toward lasting peace in Bawku.”
The Manhyia Palace confirmed in a statement that this weekend’s session is expected to conclude the mediation process. It commended both sides for their cooperation and urged continued restraint to protect the progress made so far.
The National Peace Council reinforced this call, reminding all parties that the peace efforts have entered their “most crucial stage.”
National Implications
Peace and governance analysts say a successful resolution could reset the trajectory of Bawku, restore economic vibrancy, and strengthen national cohesion. It would also reinforce Ghana’s international reputation for using culturally grounded, traditional leadership to resolve complex conflicts.
Expectations are high, especially given the Asantehene’s well-regarded role in resolving the Dagbon crisis.
As the nation turns its attention to the Manhyia Palace this weekend, many are hopeful that the latest intervention will finally bring closure to one of Ghana’s most enduring traditional disputes.
Source: Starr FM / Isaac Justice Bediako
