Bawku Conflict: ‘You’re one people, live as brothers and sisters’ – Otumfuo tells factions

Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has appealed to the feuding factions in the Bawku chieftaincy dispute to commit to lasting peace, reminding them that they remain “one people” who must continue to live together regardless of the mediation outcome.

This call came as the Asantehene brought together representatives of the Mamprugu and Kusasi sides for a rare face-to-face meeting at the Manhyia Palace Jubilee Hall in Kumasi, on Monday, December 1, 2025.

This follows months of separate engagements aimed at resolving the longstanding conflict.

The meeting was held in a notably cordial atmosphere, with both delegations acknowledging that they have no justifiable reason to be at war with each other.

The Asantehene praised their comportment, describing their civility and maturity as an encouraging sign for the peace process.

He urged the leaders to begin preparing their supporters for a future without violence, stressing that harmony in Bawku depends on a collective commitment to coexist peacefully.

“Whatever the outcome of the mediation, you will still have to live together as brothers and sisters,” he reminded them, calling for an end to the cycles of disorder and mistrust that have destabilised the area.

His Majesty is expected to submit a report on the mediation, along with his recommendations, to President John Dramani Mahama in the coming days, after which a broader consultative meeting of stakeholders is anticipated.