Defence, interior ministers engage Otumfuo on resolving Bawku conflict

Ghana’s Minister of Interior, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, and the Defence minister, Dr Omane Boamah have consulted the King of the Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on the ongoing chieftaincy dispute in Bawku.

The decision to consult the king is to seek his vast mediation knowledge and also seek his support as the country works at ensuring there is peace in Bawku in the Upper East Region.

The two ministers were in the Ashanti Regional capital on Friday, February 14, 2025, to meet the king.

In a post shared via social media, Dr Omane Boamah said the government is seeking a security and traditional solution to the conflict which has taken several lives since its inception.

His post read “HE Mahama is intensifying a two-track (security and traditional) solution. As promised earlier this week, we remain committed to restoring sustainable peace in Bawku. To this end, the Minister of Interior (Hon. Muntaka Mubarak), the Chief of the Defence Staff, and I visited the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to deliberate on the dispute in Bawku. Otumfuo is the traditional leader who has been leading and finding a traditional solution to the dispute.”

Muntaka on the other hand in a post shared via social media said “Earlier today, I had the honour of accompanying the Minister of Defence, Edward Omane Boamah, and the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, on a significant visit to the Manhyia Palace.

This engagement was primarily aimed at discussing pressing regional issues with His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene.

The meeting provided a crucial platform for dialogue regarding the ongoing Bawku chieftaincy dispute, a conflict that has persisted for years and has led to social unrest in the region.

During our discussions with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, we emphasized the importance of royal intervention in fostering peace and reconciliation among the conflicting factions.

His wisdom and authority are vital in navigating this delicate situation. Additionally, we addressed another pivotal topic: the operationalization of Afari Military Hospital set to commence in September 2025.

This facility is expected to enhance healthcare delivery within the region and underscores our commitment to improving public health infrastructure”.