In a continued effort to foster peace and unity in areas affected by protracted conflicts, President John Dramani Mahama embarked on a crucial peace-building mission in the northern region.
Following his visit to the Bawku Naaba and his people, President Mahama proceeded to the Nayiri Palace to reaffirm his dedication to resolving the longstanding conflicts in the area.
In his address, President Mahama underscored the symbolic significance of the visit, describing it as a fulfillment of his promise to prioritise peace as a core pillar of his leadership agenda.
President Mahama’s Reflections and Assurances
Opening his speech, the President reflected on his campaign pledge:
“As it was rightly stated, I came here during the campaign to seek the blessings of my father for the elections that were impending. Two of his sons were contesting, and whichever of us won, it is a victory for him. And so, as his son, I have brought the victory to him.”
He assured the Nayiri that his presence at the Flagstaff House strengthens their bond.
“He can count on me. He should know that it is his son who is in the Flagstaff House, and so I want to thank him again.”
Addressing Regional Conflicts
President Mahama expressed his deep concern over the ongoing conflicts in Bawku and Walewale, acknowledging their emotional toll on the Nayiri.
“I know that my father has not been sleeping because of what is happening in Bawku and Walewale, and so it is giving him sleepless nights. During the campaign, I made a promise—bringing peace will be one of my major priorities.”
He emphasised the urgency of his visit: “It’s exactly one week since I was sworn in, and this is my first major assignment outside Accra. It shows how important this matter is to me.”
Appealing for patience and restraint, he added: “I just came to appeal to him to exercise restraint and patience and for his subjects to trust that we will resolve this matter amicably.”
Collaborative Peace Efforts
President Mahama also highlighted plans to engage other traditional leaders, including Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who had played pivotal roles in past peace efforts.
“Nana Addo gave me a hint that Otumfuo has been playing some role. I am supposed to meet with him on the 19th of this month, and it’s one of the issues I will discuss with him.”
He assured the Nayiri of regular updates and collaborative efforts:
“Whatever comes out of it, I will inform my father.”
Gratitude and Prayers
Concluding his address, President Mahama expressed gratitude and offered prayers for the Nayiri’s health and longevity.
“I thank him very much, and I wish him good health. May God continue to give him a long life so that he will stay to look after us. Thank you very much!”
