The Asante Youth Association (AYA) has issued a strong statement in support of the mediation efforts led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, regardin
The Asante Youth Association (AYA) has issued a strong statement in support of the mediation efforts led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, regarding the protracted Bawku chieftaincy conflict, while criticising comments made by the Member of Parliament for Nalerigu/Gambaga, Alhaji Nurudeen Muhammed.
The statement, released on Wednesday, highlights the youth organization’s support for the Asantehene’s role as a national peacemaker and underscores the importance of responsible leadership in fostering national cohesion.
In its statement, AYA praised Otumfuo Osei Tutu for his commitment to peace, describing the Asantehene as a globally respected statesman whose intervention in Bawku exemplifies the role of traditional authority in modern governance.
The association emphasized that the mediation process was inclusive, involving stakeholders from both the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities, political actors, academics, security agencies, and Ghanaians from other regions. AYA stressed that the mediation was a national responsibility and not a sectional agenda.
However, the organization condemned the public remarks by Nurudeen Muhammed, who expressed opposition to the mediation report.
AYA described the MP’s comments as “irresponsible” and “reckless,” noting that they undermine national unity and the spirit of dialogue that the mediation represented.
The youth group reminded the MP that his role in Parliament is a privilege that comes with responsibility, requiring conduct that reflects patriotism, dignity, and the broader interests of the Republic of Ghana.
AYA further suggested that the MP’s actions reflect inexperience and called on senior political leaders—including Speaker Alban Bagbin, Mahama Ayariga, and Isaac Adongo—to mentor him and instill a deeper understanding of responsible leadership.
The association also urged Parliament to take steps to ensure that members whose conduct threatens national cohesion are held accountable.
Addressing the youth of both the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities, AYA emphasized the importance of ignoring divisive rhetoric and political manipulation.
The organization reminded young people that peace is essential for the preservation of identity, cultural pride, and development.
“True dignity and identity as Kusasi or Mamprusi can only be sustained when they live peacefully on their own land,” the statement read.
The association also noted the national implications of the Bawku conflict, highlighting that instability in any part of the country affects other regions, including the Ashanti Region, which is central to trade, education, and healthcare for several areas of Ghana.
AYA commended Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for suspending other commitments and committing resources to the mediation process, describing his actions as a demonstration of the national character and sincerity of his efforts.
Finally, AYA called on media outlets to exercise responsibility by refusing to amplify hate speech or divisive rhetoric, warning that unchecked ethnic tensions can have severe societal consequences, citing Rwanda as a cautionary example.
The youth organization concluded by reaffirming its unwavering support for Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, peace, and national unity.
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