Parties Jubilate as Otumfuo Concludes Bawku Mediation: His Majesty to Present Peace Plan to President
Factions sit Together for the First Time
There was jubilation from the Kusasi and Mamprusi factions in the Bawku conflict as Otumfuo Osei Tutu II concluded mediation of the long-stading and destructive chieftaincy dispute.
His Majesty is expected to submit his report, which will include the roadmap to peace, to President John Mahama in the coming days for further action.
Historic
It was a historic moment at the Manhyia Palace as, for the first time, the factions in the Bawku conflict —Kusasis and Mamprusis,—sat face to face during the mediation process.
They hugged each other after the over 5-hour deliberations.
Tight security
There was heavy security presence at Manhyia to prevent any disturbances.
However, security personnel intervened in maintaining order as the factions momentarily engaged in a fierce argument.
A representative of the Kusasis told journalists that both sides presented their demands. “Otumfuo said he has been asked by the President to mediate the crisis, and he will present an official report on what transpired during the mediation. His Majesty has also advised us to remain calm and to stop engaging in violence,” he stated.
Sitting together
Today’s meeting marked the first time the Kusasi and Mamprusi factions sat together before the Asantehene.
Otumfuo, recognized as a Pillar of Peace, is said to have conducted the dialogue with both firmness and neutrality.
