In recent days, public discourse surrounding the Mamprugu–Kusasi matter has been clouded by confusion, premature jubilation, and unfortunately, misleading media reports. It has become necessary to offer clarity—not to take sides, but to ensure that the public and the media alike understand what truly transpired.
At the centre of the misunderstanding is a basic but important distinction: mediation is not a declaration.A mediation process does not announce winners or losers. It does not deliver rulings, judgments, or verdicts.
Rather, it is a conflict-resolution tool that brings parties together to help them find a mutually acceptable path forward. This is fundamentally different from a declaration, which pronounces a definitive outcome.
Three days ago, some groups rushed to celebrate, claiming that their side had secured a favourable declaration. These claims were false. Sadly, sections of the media amplified the misinformation by reporting that a ruling was imminent. This not only misled the public but also risked inflaming tensions unnecessarily.
It is important to understand that mediation thrives on ‘confidentiality’. Some of the issues discussed are private and cannot be publicly disclosed. That is why Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who facilitated the process with utmost care, refrained from stating whether there was an agreement or a stalemate in resent statement issued. This was not secrecy it was professionalism.
Bawku Conflict: Otumfuo concludes final mediation sitting at Manhyia
Effective mediation also requires both parties to shift from entrenched positions and focus on practical solutions for the future. When participants arrive determined to argue litigation-style points, the process stalls, and the mediator’s role becomes one of guidance rather than judgment.
Unfortunately, efforts to correct the public narrative have been met with insults and accusations—some claiming bias, others alleging hostility toward Mamprugu. These accusations are deeply unfair. Truth is not an enemy to any group; misinformation is.
Telling a community it has “won” when nothing of the sort has occurred does far more harm than good. It breeds false hope, and when reality eventually surfaces, it fuels disappointment, confusion, and sometimes conflict.
Let it be clearly stated: ‘no declaration was made by the Asantehene’. He did not rule in favour of Mamprugu, nor did he rule in favour of the Kusasi. Any narrative suggesting otherwise is inaccurate.
This matter is of national interest. Journalists have both the right and the responsibility to report accurately so the public remains properly informed. Criticising misinformation is not an attack on any ethnic group; it is a commitment to peace and truth. Mamprugu and Dagbon share history, ties, and identity. Reporting facts should not be mistaken for partisanship.
Those who genuinely love Mamprugu or any community must value truth above sentiment. Incorrect information today can create significant problems for future generations.
As journalists, communicators, and citizens, we owe it to our nation to be careful with our words. Let us promote clarity, accuracy, and fairness. That is how we build trust. That is how we preserve peace.
Source: Isaac Justice Bediako, Broadcast Journalist
