In the wake of fresh violence in the troubled town of Bawku, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, is set to resume mediation efforts between the feuding factions in the Upper East Region from April 28 to May 1, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
A statement issued by the Chief of Staff at the Manhyia Palace appealed to all stakeholders to cooperate and help restore lasting peace.
This marks a crucial return to the negotiation table, following a renewed wave of clashes that have left multiple casualties and heightened tensions in the area.
The conflict, deeply rooted in chieftaincy and ethnic divisions, has over the years defied political solutions, prompting leaders to turn to traditional authority for resolution.
Background: A Long-Running Crisis
Bawku has been a hotbed of ethnic and chieftaincy disputes, mainly between the Kusasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups, for decades.
In 2024, during his presidential campaign, John Dramani Mahama—then flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC)—linked the conflict to partisan politics.
“There is always peace in Bawku when the NDC is in power. But when the NPP comes, there is always a crisis,” he said, drawing sharp criticism for politicizing a complex ethnic issue.
Ironically, barely four months into his second term as President, Mahama finds himself confronting the very conflict he once attributed to his political rivals.
On April 10, 2025, fresh clashes erupted between youth and security forces in Bawku, resulting in fatalities and the burning of the private residence of Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga.
Mahama Turns to Traditional Leadership
Addressing the nation during the Ghana Military Academy Graduation Parade on April 11, President Mahama shifted from political rhetoric to a call for unity and peace, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
“Nobody gains from this conflict and insecurities,” he said.
He also announced the reactivation of the Otumfuo mediation process, confirming that talks would resume upon the Asantehene’s return from abroad.
