President John Dramani Mahama has expressed hope that the mediation efforts of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, will help resolve the longstanding conflict in Bawku.
The Bawku conflict, a chieftaincy and land dispute between the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities, has caused tensions for years.
Speaking at the Regular Career Course 63–2025 graduation ceremony at the Military Academy, President Mahama said Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s mediation could bring the conflicting parties together for a peaceful resolution.
He emphasized that the Asantehene’s involvement is a positive step toward lasting peace in the area.
“I wish to emphasize that nobody gains from this situation of conflict and insecurity, we have triggered the Otumfuor mediation process which saw all stakeholders participate in discussions in Kumasi on a roadmap towards peace. I’m assured by the Asantehene that the process will resume next week when he returns from his brief visit abroad”
President Mahama also expressed concern over the impact of the conflict, including displacement, loss of life, and economic hardship.
He called for peace to prevail in Bawku and its surrounding areas.
President Mahama further stated that his government will take all crime allegations seriously and ensure that security agencies investigate and pursue criminals, regardless of their status.
“Let me reiterate that we will take all allegations of crime seriously and trigger our security service investigative machinery to go after criminals no matter who they are. But let me state emphatically also, that we do not have the resources and time to engage in any game of smoke and mirrors”
“The Ghana armed forces is engaged in several theatres to maintain peace and security in our nation. One major flash point continuous to be the Bawku area, only two days ago, an incident in the market place triggered an unfortunate loss of lives and criminal vandalism of property.”
On national security, President Mahama assured that his government will enhance the operational and combat readiness of the Ghana Armed Forces.
He pledged to provide the necessary resources to strengthen the military.
He explained that this includes better equipment, advanced training, and improved mobilization capabilities.
He added that his administration will assess the ongoing retooling initiative to ensure cost-effective measures that equip the military to meet 21st-century defense standards.
