The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is set to present the findings of his mediation effort in the Bawku conflict to President John Dramani Mahama after concluding a process intended to find a lasting solution to the decades-old dispute fuelled by chieftaincy issues.
The concluding deliberations at the Manhyia Palace yesterday were characterised by heavy security, with the Mamprusi and Kusasi parties well represented in their leadership and tribesmen and tribeswomen, both inside and outside the palace.
The report will contain a roadmap to achieving lasting peace in a conflict that has claimed hundreds of lives over the years.
Otumfuo has served as the sole mediator in the dispute, which has also resulted in extensive property destruction, maimed many, and left the once vibrant border community almost desolate.
After approximately five hours of discussions between Otumfuo and representatives from the Kusasi and Mamprusi factions, including their lawyers, hundreds of supportive members from both groups erupted in celebration, each claiming victory.
Lawyers from both sides interacted freely, smiling and shaking hands in the biggest sign of a potentially successful mediation process.
A source close to the meeting told the Daily Graphic that the Asantehene did not declare a definitive winner or loser.
The source explained that, unlike court proceedings, mediation processes focused on reaching an acceptable agreement for all parties.
The source indicated that Otumfuo took the opportunity to review all the arguments advanced by the parties since the mediation began.
"More importantly, the Asantehene announced that he would present his findings to President John Dramani Mahama for the next steps," the source stated.
The conclusion of the mediation process is anticipated to lead to an amicable settlement of the conflict.
Tight security
Yesterday’s final deliberations were held behind closed doors under tight security within the Palace grounds.
Military armoured vehicles and a significant presence of police and military personnel were stationed at strategic points to maintain peace.
Near disturbances
The peace mission, however, threatened to reach an anti-climax with a near clash between members of the two factions outside the main entrance of the Manhyia Palace.
The near confrontation began when some passengers on a bus carrying members of the Mamprusi faction waved at their tribesmen and tribeswomen gathered outside as the bus exited the palace.
The spontaneous jubilation angered the Kusasis nearby, and as the expression of joy from one side and anxiety from the other side intensified, it nearly escalated into a physical altercation.
Police and military reinforcements arrived swiftly, preventing what looked scary.
The chaotic scene outside delayed the departure of the Kusasi delegation from the palace.
After about 45 minutes, they finally made their exit, greeted by a large crowd that led them away amid cheers and the sound of honking vehicles and motorbikes.
Background
The Bawku conflict, which has lasted for several decades, has claimed over 300 lives since November 2021, with a devastating impact on the socio-economic conditions of thousands of people living in the area.
The dispute between the Kusasis and Mamprusis threatens to undo the progress the municipality has made over the years, turning Bawku into a ghost town due to heightened insecurity.
The crisis has forced hundreds of public and private sector workers, including teachers and nurses, to flee to other districts out of fear for their safety.
The escalating conflict is harming local businesses and driving away investors.
Essential services such as schools, healthcare facilities and transport are suffering as pupils, teachers, health workers and others are unable to carry out their daily activities due to spontaneous shootings and killings.
All sectors of the local economy, including health, education, trade and commerce, finance and transportation, have been severely impacted by the conflict, ultimately destroying the livelihoods of thousands of residents.
Writer’s email: gilbert.agbey@graphic.com.gh
