President John Dramani Mahama’s scheduled visit to the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on January 19, 2024, signifies a crucial step in his endeavor to address the protracted Bawku conflict. The visit, a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, underscores the importance Mahama places on engaging traditional leaders in the peace-building process. This approach acknowledges the significant influence and respect these leaders command within their communities, making their involvement vital for achieving lasting solutions to deep-seated conflicts like the one in Bawku.
The Bawku conflict, a decades-long dispute, has witnessed numerous attempts at resolution, yet sustainable peace remains elusive. The conflict, primarily rooted in chieftaincy and land disputes, has fueled inter-communal tensions and violence, resulting in significant loss of life and displacement. The complexity of the conflict requires a multifaceted approach, with traditional leaders playing a central role in mediating disputes, fostering dialogue, and promoting reconciliation at the grassroots level. President Mahama’s visit to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II reflects his recognition of this crucial element in the peace-building process.
President Mahama’s engagement with traditional leaders extends beyond his planned meeting with the Asantehene. Prior to his visit to Kumasi, President Mahama paid a courtesy call on Naa Bohagu Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, the Overlord of Mamprugu, in Nalerigu, the North East Regional Capital. This meeting, held on January 15, served as a platform for the President to discuss his intentions regarding the Bawku conflict and seek the Overlord’s insights and support. The same day, he also engaged with Zugraan Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the Overlord of the Kusaug Traditional Area in Bawku, demonstrating his commitment to engaging with all key stakeholders in the conflict zone.
During his meeting with the Overlord of Mamprugu, President Mahama highlighted the significance of traditional leadership in conflict resolution. He referenced a previous discussion with former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who had briefed him on ongoing peace initiatives and Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s role in these efforts. This continuity in approach emphasizes the bipartisan recognition of the Asantehene’s influence and the importance of traditional authorities in achieving lasting peace in Bawku. The President underscored his commitment to collaborating with Otumfuo and keeping the Overlord of Mamprugu informed of the outcomes of his meeting in Kumasi.
The President’s invocation of the successful resolution of the Dagbon conflict, spearheaded by a triumvirate of traditional leaders including the Nayiri, the late Yagbonwura, and Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, serves as a powerful precedent. The Dagbon conflict, similar to the Bawku conflict in its complexity and longevity, saw a successful resolution through the concerted efforts of these influential traditional leaders. Their mediation and guidance played a pivotal role in bridging divides, fostering reconciliation, and establishing a roadmap for lasting peace. This successful outcome provides a valuable framework and inspires hope for a similar resolution in Bawku.
President Mahama’s proactive engagement with traditional leaders, particularly his upcoming visit to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, signals a renewed focus on finding a lasting solution to the Bawku conflict. By leveraging the wisdom, influence, and respect commanded by traditional authorities, Mahama aims to create an enabling environment for dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence in the conflict-ridden area. The success of this approach hinges on the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, government agencies, civil society organizations, and the communities themselves, working together to build a future free from conflict in Bawku.
