The government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining peace and security in Bawku following the submission of the Bawku Mediation Committee’s final report by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at a ceremony held at Jubilee House on Tuesday.
Speaking at the event, the Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed, said the successful completion of the mediation process was the result of months of hard work, diplomacy, tolerance and perseverance led by the Asantehene, with the support of key stakeholders.
He noted that ensuring peace and security for all Ghanaians remains a top priority of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, adding that the government has demonstrated this commitment since assuming office on January 7, 2025.
“Immediately upon assumption of office, His Excellency the President pursued the peace process in Bawku and other conflict-affected communities with the full energy and resources at the disposal of government,” the Interior Minister said.
Alhaji Muntaka described the Bawku conflict as one of Ghana’s most protracted and complex inter-ethnic disputes, tracing its roots to the pre-colonial era and successive post-independence changes in official recognition of traditional authority between the Kusasi and Mamprusi groups.
He said frequent political transitions had historically deepened the instability and weakened traditional conflict-resolution mechanisms.
To address the situation, he said government, in consultation with stakeholders, requested Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to continue and complete the mediation process initiated under the previous administration.
The Interior Minister commended the Asantehene for what he described as an “extraordinary and selfless effort,” noting that within a relatively short period, the mediation committee was able to broker an agreement acceptable to the parties.
“We are here today to witness the handing over of the mediation process report, which we believe will bring lasting peace to Bawku,” he said.
Alhaji Muntaka emphasized that peacebuilding is a long and demanding process requiring integrity, fairness, impartiality and confidentiality, but expressed confidence that the town’s former glory would soon be restored once the recommendations in the report are implemented.
He assured that the Ministry of the Interior, working with security agencies, other government institutions and non-state actors, would play its part to sustain peace and stability in Bawku.
“The real work of rebuilding trust for sustainable peace and development begins today,” he said.
On behalf of the ministry and the security services, the Interior Minister thanked President Mahama for his support to the peace process, as well as Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the traditional leaders of Bawku for their cooperation.
He concluded by calling for continued unity and prayer, saying, “May God bless the people of Bawku with peace and bless our homeland Ghana.”
Source: www.kumasimail.com
