The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged all parties involved in the protracted Bawku conflict to commit themselves to, and abide by, the findings of the mediation report he has submitted to President John Dramani Mahama, stressing that the process was strictly a mediation and not an arbitration.

Speaking at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, December 16, while presenting the report, the Asantehene explained that he had made it clear to all factions that he would not pronounce judgment or apportion blame. “I’m here not to give a judgement as to who was wrong or right. I am here to present the facts as they are for us to have peace. It is almost about two and a half year since your predecessor invited me to mediate in a major conflict in Bawku that had become a major threat to the security of the nation,” he said.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasised that the findings of the mediation exercise should be accepted by all stakeholders as binding. “I report the facts as they are and it should be binding on all of us, whoever is involved,” he stated, adding that his role was to facilitate dialogue and document the issues raised by the parties to support lasting peace.

He noted that the report was being presented to the President for further consideration and action. “By the Grace of God, we are able to assemble here to present to Your Excellency the report of the mission you entrusted to us. We present the report for your kind consideration and whatever action you and your government consider appropriate,” the Asantehene said.