An estimated 119 people lost their lives during the period of mediation in the Bawku conflict, President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed. 

The President made the revelation when he addressed the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs, led by its President, Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam III, during a courtesy call on him at the Presidency in Accra yesterday.

President Mahama explained that while traditional mediation led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, was pursued to find a customary resolution, the process ultimately had to revert to the lawful position after the intended reconciliation did not materialise.

"Unfortunately, I think that didn't happen.  And once it didn't happen, then the mediator had no option but to revert to what the law says," President Mahama said. 

Rule of law

The President emphasised his constitutional oath to uphold the laws of Ghana and detailed the government's approach to the Bawku conflict.

"The law is the law, and so I cannot have any sentiments in the matter. I swore an oath to uphold the Constitution and the laws of the Republic of Ghana," the President stressed.

He declared that the gazetted Chief of Bawku, Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, was the legally recognised authority, stressing that "the law is the law" and that sentiment could not override legal and judicial committee decisions if nationwide chaos was to be prevented.

To consolidate the peace, President Mahama announced the establishment of a One Billion Ghana Cedi Bawku Restoration Fund, aimed at driving development in the six affected districts through investments in infrastructure, health, education and irrigation projects.

Development agenda

In his address, Pe Ayagitam congratulated the President and thanked him for his commitment to peace in Bawku.

President John Mahama (middle) seated with members of the Upper East Regonal House of Chiefs at the Jubilee House

Presenting key regional priorities, the House of Chiefs appealed for the urgent completion of major road projects, including the Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakom and Navrongo-Sandema-Fumbisi corridors, to boost trade and agricultural potential.

They also requested the upgrading of the regional hospital into a Teaching Hospital to address medical staff shortages and appealed for the completion of the stalled Navrongo Youth Resource Centre and the construction of a modern stadium in Bolgatanga.

"The Upper East Regional House of Chiefs stands as your partner in progress.

We are ready to facilitate land acquisitions and lead our people in support of policies that unite and develop not only our region but also the entire nation," Pe Ayagitam pledged.

"We are heartened by the stability returning to the Kusaug Traditional Area,” Pe Ayagitam stated.