President John Mahama has praised the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his selfless and patriotic role in mediating the protracted Bawku conflict.
The president opined that the revered traditional ruler has proven he belongs not only to Ashanti but to the entire nation.
“Otumfuo has shown that he is a national asset,” President Mahama said, commending the Asantehene for undertaking what he described as an honourable duty in the service of God and country.
The President expressed satisfaction with Otumfuo’s decision to personally read and make public the findings of the mediation process, describing the move as a mark of transparency and leadership.
He noted that by publicly presenting the report, the entire nation has been given the opportunity to understand the issues clearly and act on the recommendations without delay.
Background
The Bawku conflict, which has persisted for decades in the Upper East Region, is rooted in ethnic tensions and competing claims to chieftaincy authority.
The violence has led to repeated clashes, loss of lives as well as displacement of residents and disruptions to economic and social life in the area.
In a bid to find a lasting solution, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was invited to lead a mediation process bringing together key stakeholders including traditional leaders, community representatives and state institutions.
His involvement was widely welcomed, given his track record in conflict resolution and peace-building across the country.
President Mahama expressed confidence that the transparency surrounding the mediation report would help restore trust among the parties involved and allow the nation to move swiftly towards sustainable peace in Bawku.
