President John Dramani Mahama has assured that the government will issue a formal statement within 24 hours on the Bawku Peace Mediation Report presented by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
The assurance was given on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Jubilee House, after the Asantehene formally submitted the report following months of mediation efforts aimed at resolving the protracted Bawku chieftaincy conflict.
“I am pleased about Otumfuo’s report, and I can assure him that the government will study it carefully and, within the next 24 hours, issue a statement on its definitive position,” President Mahama stated.
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The President commended Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his dedication and leadership in engaging all parties to find a lasting solution to the conflict.
“Today, I am pleased that we have come to the end of that journey and we are embarking on the next leg of the journey,” he added.
President Mahama further urged the National Peace Council, the National House of Chiefs, and the Asantehene to deepen the mediation process, particularly by facilitating reconciliation between the Naayiri and the Bawku Naaba.
“I hope that the National Peace Council, the House of Chiefs, Otumfuo himself and all religious bodies will continue the engagement between the Nayiri and the Bawku Naaba to ensure lasting reconciliation,” the President stressed.
Presenting the report, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II disclosed that a reconciliation committee would be established, comprising representatives from both sides, including lawyers and traditional leaders.
“We nominate lawyers from each side, form a committee and begin the reconciliation process,” the Asantehene explained.
Otumfuo further revealed that engagements with the parties indicated the existence of arms and weapons within the communities and proposed a voluntary disarmament process supported by appeasement incentives.
“While talking to them, I realised arms and weapons were there. I believe we can find a safe way for them to deposit the arms. Perhaps an appeasement of about GH¢500, not by the government but by the Peace Council, myself and others. I tested the pulse, and I know it can be done,” he noted.
He cautioned the public and all factions involved to desist from inflammatory statements that could undermine the peace process.
Recalling the mandate given to him, Otumfuo said President Mahama wasted no time in reaffirming the Bawku mediation shortly after assuming office.
“By the grace of God, we can present the report entrusted to us for your kind consideration and any action your government deems appropriate,” he said.
On Monday, December 1, the Asantehene concluded his mediation with a landmark face-to-face meeting between the feuding parties at the Manhyia Palace Jubilee Hall in Kumasi.
The Naayiri’s delegation, led by Chief Tarana John Wuni Grumah, represented Naa Bohugu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, Overlord of Mamprugu, while Naba Tambis Baalug, Paramount Chief of Pusiga, led the delegation for the Bawku Naaba, Zugraan Asigri Aburgrago Azoka II, and the Kusasi people.
Former Majority Leader Cletus Avoka acted as spokesperson for the Kusasi delegation, with Dr. Issah representing the Naayiri and Mamprusis. The delegations comprised chiefs, lawyers, academics, opinion leaders and youth representatives.
Otumfuo thanked both sides for their civility and maturity and urged them to prepare their supporters to permanently end violence and live together in peace as brothers and sisters.