Source: newsthemegh.com
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has started procedures to assist in resolving the Bawku chieftaincy dispute.
Separate invitations from the Manhyia Palace have already been accepted by the rival factions in the region. Development in the region has been stifled by the conflict, which has been going on for decades and has caused deaths and property losses.
When the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, paid him a courtesy visit, the Asantehene spoke about the mediation efforts.
“I have called each side separately while I’m still working on the Bawku issue. We shall all gather and discuss the problems in harmony and the truth. We would allow both sides to express their opinions in order to resolve the problems, Asantehene said.
He continued, “I have already spoken to the faction leaders and other important people. We will investigate any documents that some people have submitted for us to review. We shall all congregate in one space to address the problems. They are to put down their weapons as I have asked.
According to research done by the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding, the Bawku war claimed the lives of 23 people between January 31 and February 10, 2023.
Violent unrest in the area was brought on by the installation of a new chief at the beginning of this year.
Although earlier efforts to end the war, including the use of force, have been made, there haven’t yet been any fruitful outcomes.
Asantehene assisted in settling the 16-year-old Dagnon Chieftaincy conflict in 2019.
According to Stephen Asamoah Boateng, minister for chieftaincy, roughly 70% of community disturbances can be linked to chieftaincy problems. The Asantehene’s involvement in the Bawku dispute has been praised by him.