Otumfuo mediation talks on Bawku conflict: Peace in sight

The visit of President John Dramani Mahama to Bawku shortly after assuming power exemplified his unwavering commitment to resolving the long-standing conflict. 

The government's pledge to peace and development across the country is evident, ensuring a prosperous and peaceful environment for all citizens.

Much has been said about the Bawku conflict, but with no clear resolution in sight. Despite various investigations, court rulings, newspaper clippings, meetings, curfews and military-police teams, no peace has been achieved in the area since the 1950s.

Mediator

Conflict practitioners and analysts have identified numerous challenges in finding a lasting resolution to conflicts in pursuit of peace.

Some argue that the conflict has caused significant deaths, injuries and economic losses and that the government should allow parties to continue fighting until one party is completely eliminated.

Despite previous governments' efforts for peace, some maintain that the current government should appoint a mediator to settle the conflict between the Kusasi and Mamprusi.

The President chose the latter option, seeking His Majesty's assistance to broker peace in the area.

Otumfuo has significantly contributed to the social, political and economic development of the country, contributing to the relative peace observed in Dagbon today.

It is important to stress that the Dagbon conflict is distinct from the Bawku conflict, which involves two ethnic groups claiming skinment.

This makes the task of bringing about permanent peace arduous and complicated, considering the nature and dynamics of the conflict, which revolves around ethnicity, land and chieftaincy disputes and political influence.

Understanding conflict causes, conditions, perspectives and processes is crucial for effective conflict analysis and resolution, as it helps in mapping out effective interventions.

The historical documentation of a conflict can be enhanced by mapping it to identify common elements, providing a useful framework for organising information on the conflict.

The feuding parties will be given equal opportunities to present their perspectives, ensuring their voices are heard and represented.

The use of undistorted testimonies from trustworthy individuals and the formation of conflict resolution specialists is crucial for effective conflict resolution.

Bawku, a diverse cultural hub, experienced an economic boom due to its strategic border location, fostering peaceful co-existence among its diverse populations.

The place, today, is a stark contrast to its former glory in the late 1950s.

The situation is exacerbated by senseless killings by unknown individuals, leading to calls for safety measures and occasional curfews.

Conflict zone portrayal

In a democratic state like Ghana, with respect for human rights and the rule of law, the current conflict zone portrayal of the Bawku town is unacceptable and must not continue in perpetuity.

The violence has led to senseless killings, displacement of women and children, cancellation of development projects, closure of schools, exodus of businesses and deployment of government troops to enforce peace.

The strength of any nation lies in its ability to handle conflicts and crises when they occur.

It is a welcome development that Otumfuo has resumed peace talks with feuding parties in Bawku.

Traditional authorities must address traditional issues. Chieftaincy disputes cannot be permanently resolved by the court system.

The Bawku chieftaincy dispute can be resolved through mediation and other processes, including indigenous mechanisms for conflict and peace-building.

Conflict resolution involves muzzling local media stations, establishing a committee, reducing military presence, addressing criminal aspects, depoliticising the conflict and focusing on the crucial role of youth.

There is little Otumfuo, as a mediator, can do, without both parties willing to smoke the peace pipe, as he cannot force solutions.

They must give peace a chance so that Bawku can reclaim its glory. 

With the government's support of Otumfuo’s mediation efforts, it is expected that agreements and resolutions reached between the feuding parties will be implemented to ensure permanent peace in Bawku.

The writer is a peace and conflict practitioner. 
E-mail: okomensah12@gmail.com