The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has formally presented a mediation report on the long-standing Bawku conflict to President John Dramani Mahama, marking a significant step toward peace and reconciliation in the troubled area.
The report was submitted on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Jubilee House in Accra, following months of behind-the-scenes engagement with key stakeholders involved in the conflict.
Reconciliation Phase Reached
Presenting the report, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II revealed that the mediation process has progressed to a reconciliation stage, paving the way for concrete peace-building measures. According to the Asantehene, a dedicated committee will be established to formally begin the reconciliation process.
“Mr. President, I want to suggest that we set up a mediation process. We include the National Peace Council, nominate lawyers from each side, form a committee and start the reconciliation process,” Otumfuo stated.
Proposal for Arms Retrieval
The Asantehene further disclosed that interactions with parties involved in the conflict revealed the presence of arms and weapons on both sides. He proposed a non-government-led approach to retrieving the weapons as part of confidence-building measures.
Otumfuo suggested that an appeasement package, potentially amounting to GH₵500, could be offered to encourage voluntary surrender of weapons. He emphasized that such an initiative could be supported by the National Peace Council, traditional authorities, and other peace-oriented stakeholders rather than the government directly.
“I tested the pulse and I know it can be done. Now it is left with you to implement what we have said,” he told the President.
Call for Responsible Public Commentary
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II also issued a strong caution to the public and members of both sides of the conflict to avoid public pronouncements that could undermine the fragile peace process.
“Where we have reached, it is more like a reconciliation… We have gotten to a stage where we all have to make peace,” he stressed.
A Crucial Step Toward Lasting Peace
The submission of the mediation report represents a critical milestone in efforts to restore peace in Bawku. With presidential consideration and implementation of the recommendations, observers believe the process could usher in a new era of dialogue, disarmament, and coexistence in the conflict-affected area.
