The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has revealed that substantial reconciliation has been achieved between the Kussasi and Mamprusi communities in several towns affected by the long-running Bawku chieftaincy conflict.

Otumfuo made the disclosure while presenting the final Bawku Peace Mediation Report to President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, December 16.

According to the Asantehene, the mediation committee undertook extensive consultations with traditional leaders in communities impacted by the withdrawal of traditional recognition over the years, following the Governor-General’s White Paper of 1957, NLC Decree 112, and subsequent legislations, including PNDC Law 75.

He explained that after engaging chiefs and elders in these affected towns, the committee found that meaningful reconciliation has taken place between the Kussasis and Mamprusis in all areas outside Bawku itself.

Otumfuo noted that the progress achieved in these communities demonstrates that peaceful coexistence between the two groups is possible when dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to lawful authority are prioritised.

While acknowledging the reconciliation successes elsewhere, the Asantehene stressed that the Bawku situation remains unique and requires firm enforcement of the law to achieve lasting peace.

He reiterated the committee’s final recommendation that government must enforce existing laws recognising Zugraan Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II as the legitimate Chief of Bawku and head of the Kusasi Traditional Area.

In presenting the report, Otumfuo grounded his position firmly in the Constitution of Ghana and the Supreme Court’s final determination on the matter, emphasising that traditional authority must operate within the framework of the law.

“We chiefs, no matter how exalted, do not live above the Constitution of Ghana and the laws duly enacted and affirmed by the courts,” he stated.

He further called on Naa Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, the Nayiri and Overlord of Mamprugu, to accept the existing legal position and respect the Supreme Court ruling.

“The final recommendation, Mr President, is that my brother, the Nayiri, accepts the laws as presently constituted, recognising Asigri Abugrago Azoka II as the Chief of Bawku and head of the Kusasi Traditional Area,” the Asantehene said.

Otumfuo concluded that enforcing the law consistently, as has been done in other towns where reconciliation has succeeded, remains the most effective path toward restoring peace and stability in Bawku.