Bawku Conflict: Asantehene Reports on Status of Resolution Efforts
The King of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has updated the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Yohuno, on the status of the ongoing resolution process in the protracted Bawku conflict.
His Majesty met the feuding factions individually on April 29, 2025, and afterward asked them to return to their communities for further consultations.
At a meeting with the IGP on May 9, 2025, Otumfuo said the parties had been encouraged to go back home and consult with their people.
In addition, he said all the necessary stakeholders had been engaged.
“We met the last time for some discussions. We will meet again. They have gone back to consult and will return. I have engaged my brother Nayiri and my brother Naba. I have engaged all leaders and professionals.”
His Majesty is optimistic about the outcome of the process.
“We are not done, but I am hopeful it will end well. Since the last meeting, there has been calm.”
The Occupant of the Golden Stool also reiterated his call for restraint among the youth.
“I have conveyed to the youth that I don’t want guns and violence. They should stay calm for the process to continue. Ghanaians will be informed of whatever happens.”
The IGP brought up the topic, expressing delight and gratitude to the King for taking the bold step to mediate.
Sharing the horrific experiences police officers in the area had endured—which necessitated his visit—he indicated that the police force had been overwhelmed by the situation.
According to him, the Asantehene’s intervention is a great relief.
“When we heard of your plan to help solve the problem in Bawku, it brought a lot of relief to us. Thank you very much. We are very happy with your intervention.”
The IGP reported that normal police duties have since been suspended, while officers residing in the town have been evacuated along with their families.
Currently, he said, an operational police force has been deployed to the town.
“Normal policing duties have been withdrawn. Only the operational teams remain because they are vulnerable and can be attacked in their homes. All those with families have been sent back to Bolga so that we can treat Bawku as an operational ground. That is what we have been doing for now.”
In Binduri, he said there are collaborations with National Security on ways to de-escalate the situation.
Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini
