The Zug-Raan Bawku Naba and President of the Kusaug Traditional Council, Zug-Raan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, has formally accepted in full the mediation report submitted by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on the protracted Bawku conflict, pledging his support for the implementation of its recommendations toward lasting peace in Kusaug.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Zug-Raan and the people of Kusaug, on December 18, 2025, His Majesty expressed profound gratitude to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his more than two years of sustained engagement between the Zug-Raan and the Nayiri, which culminated in the submission of the final mediation report to President John Dramani Mahama on December 16, 2025.
The statement described Otumfuo’s acceptance of the mediation role and his conduct of the process as a testament to extraordinary leadership and service not only to Asanteman but to Ghana as a whole.
The Zug-Raan commended the Asantehene’s diligence, patience, fairness and perseverance, noting that he continued the mediation despite mourning the loss of the Queen Mother of Asanteman and the Mamponghene at different stages of the process.
Reaffirming his commitment to peace, the Zug-Raan said he accepts the mediation report in its entirety and will support its full implementation in line with his respect for Otumfuo’s high office and the laws of Ghana.
The statement also extended appreciation to former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and President John Dramani Mahama for recognizing Otumfuo’s leadership and entrusting him with the mandate to mediate between the Zug-Raan and the Nayiri.
The Zug-Raan further commended the Nayiri, Naa Bohugu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga II, for participating in the mediation process through his representatives, describing the engagements at the Manhyia Palace as peaceful, cordial and inclusive.
Welcoming the government’s prompt acceptance of the mediation report, the Zug-Raan expressed gratitude to President Mahama and the Government of Ghana for announcing measures aimed at ensuring peace and development in Bawku.
He pledged steadfast dedication to constitutional order, the rule of law, and national cohesion, and said he fully accepts the government’s position on the report.
As part of efforts to build sustainable peace through healing and reconciliation, the Zug-Raan appealed to the Nayiri to join him in calling for peace in the spirit of common humanity.
He also urged all residents of Bawku, as well as Kusaas and Mamprusis across the country and beyond, to unite and pursue reconciliation for progress and development.
The Zug-Raan welcomed the government’s commitment to socio-economic redevelopment in Bawku, particularly the proposed One Billion Ghana Cedis (GHS 1 billion) Bawku Revitalisation Fund.
He described the initiative as positive news for residents and pledged the support of the Kusaug Traditional Area for all revitalisation and social reintegration efforts.
He further urged the people of Kusaug to pray for and commemorate those who lost their lives in the conflict and to recommit to peaceful coexistence to prevent future violence.
On sustained dialogue, the Zug-Raan reaffirmed his readiness to continue engaging Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and government officials to advance peace, and called on civil society organisations, religious institutions and development partners to support peacebuilding and reconciliation in Kusaug.
The statement concluded with gratitude to the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs, the National House of Chiefs, religious groups, the National Peace Council, civil society and the security services for their support, and urged all stakeholders to avoid divisive actions in the interest of unity and patriotism.
