Retired Colonel Festus Aboagye has cautioned against over-relying on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to single-handedly resolve the long-standing Bawku conflict.
Speaking to ABC News GH on Monday, he commended the traditional leader’s involvement, especially in handling the traditional aspect of the conflict.
“Otumfuo is very well placed to address the traditional aspect,” he said, stressing that even the courts have proven ineffective in that domain.
However, he warned that the broader issues particularly the flow of arms into the region fall outside Otumfuo’s scope and require direct government intervention.
“Weapons and ammunition do not find their way there by magic. Government needs strong intelligence to cut off these supply lines,” he added.
Col. Aboagye emphasized the need for a multi-pronged approach, urging authorities not to expect a complete resolution through traditional mediation alone.
“We must not expect the Asantehene to be able to resolve all of these,” he warned.
“While he tries to settle the traditional issues, the government must simultaneously address the security aspect especially the proliferation of small arms.”
His remarks come as the nation focuses on the Manhyia Palace, where Otumfuo has begun mediating the crisis involving the Kusasi and Mamprusi factions.
The talks, set to run until May 1, follow President Mahama’s invitation to the Asantehene to help mediate after renewed violence in Bawku claimed the lives of two police officers and a soldier.
