A businessman, Peter Arabe who is well known in the private transport sector as chairman Peter has been formally installed as the new Ashanti Regional Waziri to serve as the Second-in-Command to the Ashanti Regional Kusasi chiefs with the title “Waziri”.
This follows the demise of Naba Abdul-Malik Azenbe, his predecessor who was shot dead by unknown gunmen in front of his house at Asawase F-Line in July 22, 2025.
In accordance with Kusasi customs and traditions, Waziri Peter Arabe swore an oath of allegiance and was duly sworn into office as part of the installation ceremonies during a colorful coronation ceremony in Dumanafo, Mamponteng in the Ashanti Region amid a beautiful cultural exhibits including arts and fanfare.
The coronation ceremony was successfully conducted under the supervision of the Council of Kusasi Chiefs in the Ashanti Region and the President of the Regional Council of Zongo Chiefs.
Restoring peace in the Bawku area and fostering togetherness among the Kusasi community in the Ashanti Region were at the top of the New Installed Chief Waziri Peter Arabe’s priority.
Although Abdul-Malik Azenbe’s murder has not been officially connected to the ongoing Bawku war in the Upper East Region, the fact that such a prominent traditional leader was killed during a period of high tension between Kusasi and Mamprusi factions has led to conjecture.
Addressing the large gathering after his enskinment ceremony, he appealed to the Kusasis, including those living in the Ashanti Region, to desist from any form of action that may trigger further conflict in Bawku.
“We, the Kusasi people residing in the Ashanti Region, ought to place unity and love above all else. In relation to the situation in our hometown of Bawku, I am appealing to the youth to remain calm. The issues have reached a settled level, which requires patience,” Waziri Peter Arabe.
He expressed optimism about the outcome of the Otumfuo-led mediation convened by the Asantehene.
He holds the view that this high-level intervention will lead to a permanent resolution of the difficulties facing Bawku, recognizing the paramount chief of the Kusasi Traditional Area’s support of the mediation process.
“Following the release of the report from Otumfuo, Zugraan Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, who is the Bawku Naba and overlord of the Kusaug Traditional Area, has urged us, the Kusasi people, to allow peace to prevail. Once the King, Otumfuo, has settled the case, the strife needs to end. Therefore, we, the sub-chiefs, have also advised our youth against any further violence. For that reason, if you hear of any violence again in Bawku, do not blame it on the Kusasi people”.
In a related development, Alhaji Abdul Rahman Mumuni Attia, the Organiser of the Kusasi Youth in the Ashanti Region, called for justice for their late Asawase Kusasi Chief, Abdul-Malik Azenbe.
He stressed that the delivery of justice would deter others and prevent anyone who has intentions of committing murder.
“It has come to our attention that the police have taken into custody the individuals suspected of our late chief, Malik Azenbe. Therefore, I am appealing to all Kusasi youth to remain calm and allow the law to take its course. However, we want justice to be served at the end of the trial. Justice being served will act as a warning to others and prevent anyone with murderous intentions. Without justice being served, other individuals will be encouraged to commit more crimes,” Rahman Mumuni stated.
He therefore urged all members of the Kusasi community in Asawase and the entire region to remain united and support Waziri Peter Arabe to achieve the objectives of his mandate.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honor, Naaba Musah Akanbonga, the Frafra Chief of Kumasi and President of the Council of Zongo Chiefs in the Ashanti Region, emphasized the significance of northern Ghanaians maintaining their cultural customs and stewardship regardless of where they currently live.
According to him, a significant number of northerners who have settled in the Ashanti Region are unwilling to assign traditional names to their children and are failing to pass on their native language. He believes this is not the correct path to take.
Waziri Peter Arabe expressed gratitude to the Chiefs and traditional leaders who traveled from far and near to witness and bless the occasion highlighting the pivotal role played by the Zugureana, Naaba Asigere Abuguragu Azoka II.
He also invoked divine blessings and guidance for his tenure and the peace efforts ahead.
