By Iddi Yire
Accra, June 3, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has commended Otumfuo Osei Tutu, the Asantehene, for his efforts towards resolving the Bawku conflict.
The President gave the commendation during Otumfuo’s courtesy call on him at the Presidency in Accra.
The Otumfuo and his retinue were at the Presidency to congratulate President Mahama on his election victory in the December 7, 2024, general election and to return the President’s visit to Manhyia within the first two weeks of his assumption of office.
He lauded the Otumfuo for consistently using his platform not only to uphold cultural heritage, but also to address the most urgent challenges facing the nation in education, health, justice, and above all, peace.
He said among Otumfuo’s greatest national contributions was his successful mediation of the long-standing Dagbon Chieftaincy crisis.
He said through Otumfuo’s steady hand and moral authority as Chair of the Committee of Eminent Chiefs, he led Dagbon from years of painful division into an era of reconciliation and renewed leadership.
“Today, the Kingdom of Dagbon stands united and strong thanks to your tireless commitment and your unifying spirit,” the President stated.
“Once again, at a critical time of our nation’s history, you’ve stepped forward to assist our nation in another moment of great need.
“Your Majesty’s ongoing efforts to mediate the Bawku conflict, though complex and challenging, offer our country a renewed sense of hope.”
President Mahama said through quiet diplomacy and cultural sensitivity and unwavering resolve, the Asantehene was helping to pave the way towards enduring peace in one of the most fragile areas of the Republic.
“I wish you well in this endeavour and we all have confidence that lasting peace will come to Bawku.”
These contributions, the President said, were not just acts of service, they were acts of nation-building, adding that they reflected the Otumfuo’s deep understanding that Ghana’s progress depended on the ability to live together in unity, mutual respect, and justice.
“As President of the Republic, I want to assure you and all traditional authorities of this government’s commitment to work in full partnership with the Institution of Chieftaincy,” President Mahama said.
“We do not see traditional leadership as relics of the past, but as essential partners in shaping our nation’s future.”
The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu hailed President Mahama for his humility and further urged him to keep it up.
He said as a traditional ruler, he supported whoever the Ghanaian people chose to be President, and he extended his support to President Mahama.
He urged the President to be bold to perform what he could, and not to disappoint Ghanaians, who voted him into office.
Present at the meeting was Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
GNA
Edited by Christian Akorlie