Otumfuo to conclude mediation in longstanding Bawku conflict on December 1

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will host a decisive two-day mediation session on November 30 and December 1, 2025, to conclude peace talks over the protracted Bawku chieftaincy conflict in the Upper East Region.

This development was announced in an official statement from the Manhyia Palace dated November 10, 2025, and signed by the Chief of Staff, Kofi Badu.

The Palace indicated that the Asantehene—who was appointed by President John Dramani Mahama earlier this year to lead a neutral mediation process—has made significant progress in brokering peace between the feuding Kusasi and Mamprusi factions.

According to the statement, Otumfuo Osei Tutu commended both sides for demonstrating goodwill and restraint throughout the mediation process.

He urged the traditional leaders, opinion heads, and residents of Bawku to continue embracing dialogue and avoid any actions that could undermine the peace efforts.

The Asantehene’s involvement in the Bawku crisis follows years of recurring violence and deep-rooted chieftaincy disputes that have cost dozens of lives and displaced hundreds of residents.

The conflict, which centers on the rightful occupant of the Bawku skin, has persisted for decades despite multiple interventions by successive governments, security agencies, and traditional mediators.

Otumfuo’s mediation efforts began earlier in 2025 after a presidential directive tasked him with facilitating a lasting resolution, drawing on his widely respected role as a custodian of peace within the National House of Chiefs.

His engagement has involved extensive consultations with the two royal gates—the Kusasis, who currently occupy the skin, and the Mamprusis, who continue to assert a counterclaim based on historical lineage.