Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has appealed for the cooperation of all stakeholders in efforts to achieve lasting peace in the protracted Bawku conflict.
The dispute between the Kusasis and Mamprusis has intensified in recent times, resulting in several fatalities. The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is currently leading a mediation process to resolve the impasse.
Speaking in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region on Monday during the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) national Thank You Tour, Dr. Bawumia expressed deep sorrow over the ongoing violence. He described the conflict as one between “two factions who are the same people with shared history and culture,” and called for an immediate ceasefire.
“I feel so sad about this conflict and the killing of innocent people. Mamprusis and Kusasis are one people, and this should not be happening. We understand each other’s language, we have intermarried—we are one people,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia urged full support for the Asantehene-led mediation, stressing the importance of unity and dialogue. He also condemned the politicisation of the crisis, accusing some individuals of exploiting the situation for selfish political gain.
“The politicisation of the crisis in Bawku is very unfortunate. Some people do that for their own parochial interests, not for the peace and stability of the area,” he noted.
“As politicians, let us be careful not to use chieftaincy issues for political advantage. The NDC have done it, and it is disingenuous—it is hanging around their neck.”
He expressed hope that the mediation efforts would succeed in restoring peace, adding, “I pray the mediation team being led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will be able to bring the much-needed peace to Bawku. I urge all factions and stakeholders to cooperate fully with the team.”
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