I’m no longer right here to mention who used to be proper or fallacious – Asantehene on Bawku peace procedure – Life Pulse Daily
Editor-in-chiefDecember 16, 20254 Mins read65
I’m not here to say who was right or wrong – Asantehene on Bawku peace process
Introduction
In a significant development regarding the protracted Bawku conflict, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has provided crucial clarity on the nature of his intervention. Speaking during the presentation of the Bawku Conflict Mediation Report to President John Mahama at the Jubilee House, the Monarch explicitly distinguished his role as one of mediation, not arbitration.
The core message delivered was clear: his objective was not to adjudicate or assign blame, but to establish facts and lay the groundwork for sustainable peace. This distinction is vital for understanding the current peace process and the anticipated next steps from the government regarding this critical national security issue.
Key Points
- Mediation vs. Arbitration: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized that his mandate was strictly to facilitate dialogue and present facts, not to issue a binding judgment on who was right or wrong.
- Submission of the Report: The comprehensive report, marking the culmination of over two years of work, has been formally presented to the President for review and action.
- Government Continuity: The Asantehene noted that the process continued seamlessly following the change in government, with President Mahama reaffirming the mediation mandate immediately.
- Focus on Facts: The goal was to present the reality of the situation “as it is” to foster an environment where peace can prevail.
- Human Cost: The conflict was described as a “disaster” that claimed many innocent lives and escalated into a major national security concern.
Background
The Bawku conflict is a long-standing chieftaincy dispute in the Upper East Region of Ghana, which has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement over the years. The volatility of the situation required a high-level intervention to prevent further escalation.
Approximately two and a half years prior to this report, the previous administration invited the Asantehene to intervene. Accepting the challenge, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II embarked on a delicate mission to broker peace. The transition of power to the current administration under President John Mahama did not derail this progress. Instead, the new government immediately validated the importance of the Asantehene’s work, allowing the mediation process to proceed without interruption. This continuity underscores the non-partisan nature of the peace efforts and the high priority placed on resolving the Bawku crisis.
Analysis
The Asantehene’s distinction between mediation and arbitration is analytically crucial for the future of the Bawku peace process.
The Nature of Mediation
By defining his role as a mediator, the Asantehene positioned himself as a neutral facilitator. In mediation, the goal is to help conflicting parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement. The mediator does not impose a solution. This approach preserves the dignity of all parties and encourages buy-in, which is essential for long-term stability in traditional governance disputes.
Implications for Governance
The presentation of the report to the executive branch signifies a transition from dialogue to policy. The Asantehene has laid out the facts; the burden now shifts to the government to determine the “appropriate action.” This places the onus of conflict resolution on the state, leveraging the factual foundation established by the mediation team. It avoids the trap of the Monarch being seen as taking sides, thereby protecting his neutral standing in Ghanaian society.
Practical Advice
For stakeholders, observers, and residents of the Bawku area, the current phase of the process requires patience and adherence to the rule of law.
- Wait for Official Policy: Avoid reacting to rumors. The government will review the Asantehene’s report and formulate an official response. Wait for directives from the Ministry of Security or the Presidency.
- Support Peace Initiatives: Community leaders should reinforce the message that the mediation report is a tool for peace, not a weapon for renewed conflict.
- Engage with Security Agencies: If tensions rise, engage with the established security task forces rather than resorting to self-help.
- Review the Facts: Once the report is made public (in part or whole), stakeholders should study the findings to understand the basis for future government interventions.
FAQ
What is the difference between mediation and arbitration?
Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps disputing parties talk through their issues to reach a voluntary agreement. The mediator does not decide the outcome. Arbitration, however, is more like a private trial where the arbitrator hears both sides and makes a binding decision. The Asantehene confirmed he was mediating, not arbitrating.
Why was the Asantehene chosen for the Bawku conflict?
The Asantehene is widely respected as a neutral and influential traditional leader in Ghana. His stature allows him to facilitate dialogue between warring factions without being perceived as having a vested interest in the specific outcome, making him an ideal mediator for sensitive chieftaincy disputes.
What happens next after the report submission?
The report is now in the hands of the President and the government. They will analyze the findings and recommendations and decide on the necessary administrative, security, or legal actions to achieve sustainable peace in Bawku.
Has the Asantehene assigned blame in the conflict?
No. The Asantehene explicitly stated, “I’m here not to give a judgment as to who was wrong and who was right.” He focused on presenting facts to facilitate peace rather than assigning blame.
Conclusion
The presentation of the Bawku Conflict Mediation Report by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, marks a pivotal moment in the quest for peace in the Upper East Region. By clearly stating that his role was strictly mediation and not to determine who was “proper or fallacious,” he has maintained his neutrality and provided the government with an objective foundation for action. The focus now shifts to the executive branch to translate the findings of this report into tangible policies that will end the violence and restore stability to Bawku.
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