I’m not here to judge – Asantehene on Bawku peace process

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has reiterated that his involvement in efforts to resolve the long-standing Bawku conflict was purely mediation, making it clear that he was never mandated to determine who was right or wrong.

Presenting the Bawku Conflict Mediation Report to President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, December 16, the Asantehene said his responsibility was to establish the facts and help create the conditions needed for lasting peace in the troubled municipality.

“I am here not to give a judgment as to who was wrong and who was right. I am here to present the facts as they are for us to have peace,” he said.

Otumfuo recalled that nearly two and a half years ago, he was invited by the previous administration to help mediate the conflict, which he described as a painful national challenge that had claimed many innocent lives and evolved into a serious security concern.

According to him, the transition of political power did not disrupt the peace process, as President Mahama moved quickly to reaffirm the mediation mandate after assuming office.

The Asantehene noted that this continuity allowed the dialogue to progress steadily, leading to the completion of the report now before the President.

He explained that the document was submitted for the government’s consideration, with the next steps resting entirely in the hands of the state.

Otumfuo also expressed appreciation to both President Mahama and his predecessor for the confidence placed in him to handle such a sensitive national matter.

He described peace and security as the most pressing responsibilities of leadership, stressing that reconciliation must remain above partisan or factional interests.

The mediation report represents months of consultations and dialogue with stakeholders and is expected to guide government actions aimed at securing sustainable peace and restoring normal life for residents of Bawku.