Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is set to make a decisive final attempt to resolve the long-standing Bawku chieftaincy conflict, a crisis that has spanned generations and destabilised the Upper East Region. The highly anticipated concluding mediation session will take place from November 30 to December 1, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
A Historic Turning Point
According to both the Manhyia Palace and the National Peace Council (NPC), this upcoming dialogue represents the most promising opportunity yet to end the violent cycles that have plagued Bawku for decades. The conflict—rooted in complex traditional claims between the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities—has resulted in loss of lives, mass displacement, and severe social and economic decline.
Once a thriving border town, Bawku has become known for curfews, military interventions, business shutdowns, and disrupted social services. Education, healthcare, and economic activity have suffered greatly, with many professionals unwilling to accept postings to the area due to persistent insecurity.
Otumfuo’s Renewed Leadership
Otumfuo’s involvement in the peace process dates back to the administration of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and intensified under President John Dramani Mahama after a violent resurgence claimed the lives of two police officers and a military officer.
His current mediation efforts have combined both private and joint sessions with the feuding factions, conducted discreetly at the Manhyia Palace. The NPC has applauded the Asantehene’s structured approach, calling it the most credible pathway yet to securing lasting peace.
Otumfuo’s successful prior role in resolving the Dagbon crisis has further strengthened trust in his neutrality and ability to guide traditional conflicts toward peaceful resolution.
The Final Mediation Session
In a statement, the Manhyia Palace confirmed that the upcoming engagements are expected to bring the mediation to a close.
The Palace noted: “His Majesty praises both sides for their positive approach so far and urges all stakeholders to refrain from any actions that may jeopardise the progress toward a lasting solution.”
The National Peace Council shares this optimism, encouraging the factions to maintain calm and openness as the high-pressure process enters its critical final stage.
National Significance
Experts believe that a successful resolution in Bawku will have implications far beyond the municipality. The NPC has stressed that settling this long-standing traditional dispute would not only stabilize the region but also reinforce Ghana’s reputation as a nation capable of resolving complex conflicts peacefully.
A breakthrough in Bawku would thus represent a powerful symbol of national unity, cohesion, and traditional diplomacy at its best.
