Renowned Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) expert, Austin Gamey, has asserted that the protracted Bawku conflict could be resolved within just two or three mediation sittings if the right people are engaged in the process.

Speaking on Joy Prime on Monday, 28th July, following a renewed wave of attacks in the Bawku enclave, Mr Gamey stated: “Assuming I am handling this mediation process, it shouldn’t take more than three sittings; it should be over because they have signed a consent to mediate.”

He noted that once the parties agree to mediation, the process should not drag on unless the representatives involved are not the right stakeholders.

“If they truly agreed [to mediation], then it shouldn’t trigger this kind of attack on one another. Or perhaps the people representing them at the mediation are incomplete,” he observed.
Mr Gamey emphasised the need for expert mediators with a deep understanding and competence in handling volatile disputes.

“This is a very volatile issue, so it has to be handled by real expert mediators, of which I believe the Asantehene and his team have experience, given their role in the Dagbon issue. I don’t see why this should be taking so long,” he stated.

He also questioned whether the parties had genuinely agreed to the mediation or were being compelled into it.

While commending the ongoing peace initiative led by the Asantehene, he insisted that the real responsibility lies with the stakeholders of the conflict and those representing them at the mediation table.

“Even the best mediation efforts will fail if the participants and mediators lack the competence required,” Mr Gamey concluded.