The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has concluded a crucial phase of his mediation efforts in the protracted Bawku chieftaincy dispute, hosting a face-to-face meeting between the two rival factions at the Manhyia Palace Jubilee Hall in Kumasi.
The meeting brought together delegations representing the Naayiri and the Mamprugu traditional authorities on one side, and the Bawku Naba and the Kusasi people on the other.
Chief Tarana John Wuni Grumah, Paramount Chief of the Tarana Traditional Area and spokesperson for the Naayiri, led a 30-member team on behalf of Naa Bohugu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, the Naayiri and Overlord of Mamprugu and the Mamprusis.
Representing the Bawku side, Naba Tambis Baalug, Paramount Chief of Pusiga, led the delegation for Bawku Naba Zugraan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II and the Kusasi community.
Former MP Cletus Avoka served as the spokesperson for the Kusasi delegation, while Dr. Issah represented the Naayiri and Mamprusi sides. Both groups included chiefs, lawyers, academics, opinion leaders, and youth representatives.
The Asantehene convened the joint meeting after months of listening to both factions present their positions separately.
The face-to-face encounter, according to Manhyia Palace officials, was aimed at encouraging direct dialogue and identifying a pathway toward lasting peace in the troubled Bawku traditional area.
The meeting was described as cordial, with both sides acknowledging that they are “one people” who should not be in conflict with each other.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II commended the delegations for their civility and maturity.
He reminded them that, regardless of the eventual outcome of the mediation process, the feuding parties would need to coexist peacefully as “brothers and sisters.”
He urged the leaders to begin preparing their supporters to permanently reject violence and disorder.
The Asantehene also disclosed that he would soon submit a comprehensive report of his mediation effort, along with recommendations, to President John Dramani Mahama.
He expressed hope that the President would act swiftly and convene a formal gathering of all stakeholders to announce the next steps toward resolving the conflict.
The statement was signed by Kofi Badu, Chief of Staff at the Manhyia Palace.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
