President John Dramani Mahama has expressed grave concern over the continuing conflict in Bawku, describing the situation as a threat to national peace and regional cohesion.
Addressing the issue during a courtesy call by the Naa-Yiri of Mamprugu at the Jubilee House, the President painted a bleak picture of the town’s current state while appealing for swift collaborative action to restore calm.
“Bawku, which has always been a booming and prosperous commercial centre, is now a pale shadow of itself. Youth move around on motorcycles with sophisticated assault rifles and fire indiscriminately”
President John Dramani Mahama
The President lamented the deterioration of Bawku, once a thriving commercial hub in the northern region, now marred by violence and insecurity. He stressed the far-reaching consequences of the protracted conflict, which has significantly affected all ethnic groups in the area, including Mamprusi, Kusasi, Bissa, and Mossi communities.
He noted that professionals had fled the area and public service workers were now unwilling to accept postings to Bawku. In acknowledging the heavy toll the conflict has taken on the region’s socio-economic fabric, he also praised traditional leadership for their restraint and contribution to peace efforts.
President Mahama commended the Naa-Yiri for his role in de-escalating tensions, lauding his conduct as both dignified and statesmanlike.
“Your calm and reasonable voice has been a source of guidance to many, and I sincerely appreciate your commitment to peace,” the President said, emphasizing that the traditional ruler’s leadership continues to serve as a steadying force during difficult times.
He revealed that during a recent meeting with the Asantehene, Nana Osei Tutu II, he was briefed on the collaborative efforts being made with the Mamprugu Kingdom to find a traditional resolution to the Bawku impasse. “I commend you for the concessions you are willing to make in order to see lasting peace in Bawku,” President Mahama added.
The President urged all relevant parties to intensify their efforts in the peace process to allow normalcy to return to Bawku. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and reconciliation, describing them as the only sustainable pathways to resolving the deep-rooted conflict.
Commitment to Security and Development
President Mahama reiterated his administration’s determination to restore stability in Bawku. He outlined a multi-pronged approach that includes heightened security presence, bolstered conflict resolution mechanisms, and sustained engagement with religious, civic, and traditional actors.
“We believe that peace in Bawku is a matter of national importance and that it requires our collective resolve so that justice will prevail and that we will resolve our issues by dialogue”
President John Dramani Mahama
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with traditional leaders, emphasizing that their wisdom and cooperation were crucial to achieving peace, especially in a manner “that upholds human dignity,” given the sensitive nature of the conflict at hand.
Concluding his remarks, President Mahama extended heartfelt appreciation to the Naa-Yiri and his delegation for their visit. He hailed the Mamprugu Kingdom as a bastion of tradition and national conscience, pledging continued collaboration to accelerate its development.
“Your visionary leadership continues to inspire your people and the nation at large, and the government stands ready and willing to work with you to realise Mamprugu’s full development potential through enhanced infrastructure in education, health care, agriculture, roads, bridges, and job creation”
President John Dramani Mahama
He ended his address with a call for unity, urging all parties to strive towards a future grounded in peace and collective prosperity. “Long live the Mamprugu Kingdom. Long live the Northeast Region. Long live our beloved Ghana.”
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