Peace Council calls for calm amid renewed violence in Bawku

The Upper East Regional Peace Council has appealed for peace in Bawku, following the resurgence of violence that has claimed at least eight lives and injured several others.

Recent Developments

- Rival chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre's return from exile sparked the latest violence.

- An ambush on travelers resulted in multiple deaths and injuries.

- Ghana Police Service boosts security presence along Bolga-Tamale highway.

- Government imposes curfew citing Chief Abagre's presence as a safety threat.

Alhaji Sumaila Issaka, Chairman of the Upper East Regional Peace Council, emphasized in a statement the need for stability in Bawku.

“While appreciating the efforts of all stakeholders, especially the security services and the people of Bawku, the Council wishes to call on parties in the conflict to heed the call of nonviolence and protect the peace so that Bawku can return to stability.

“The Council also wishes to call on the security services to be proactive in ensuring the safety of all people in Bawku and of all travellers on the Bolgatanga-Tamale Highway.

“In this regard, we call on all residents of Bawku to support the law enforcement agencies to implement actions that will help ease the tension and allow people to pursue their livelihoods in a more predictable manner.”

Context

The Bawku conflict, dating back to 1931, involves the Kusasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups vying for control of the Bawku skin. Terrorist groups and extremist elements have exploited this conflict, posing regional security risks.

Election Concerns

As Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections, concerns grow about electoral unrest in Bawku. International support is crucial to prevent violent extremism and terrorism.

Source: Lead News Online