We want peace in Bawku – Groups in Upper East appeal

Several prominent associations from the Upper East region including BONABOTO (Association of the citizens of Bolgatanga. Nangode, Bongo and Tongo),the Bis’s Development Association, the Buluk Bisa Club, and the United Kassena Nankena East Association have in a joint press conference in Accra called for ceasefire in the ongoing chieftaincy conflict in Bawku.

Addressing the media, the National President of BONABOTO, Professor Samuel Atintono underscored the need for peace in Bawku and the wider Upper East region calling calling the n all stakeholders to work towards a resolution that would bring an end to the devastating ethnic and chieftaincy disputes.

The conflict in Bawku which rekindled in 2021 has resulted in distressing number of casualties with countless reports of killing and maiming, primarily targeting the youth.

While official reports indicate a death toll exceeding 200 individuals, the associations said the actual number was much higher due to unreported cases as has been in the case in conflicts.

The groups questioned the motives behind these killings, urging the youth in the area to reconsider their participation in the conflict and the interest they serve.

They noted that the conflict had had a devastating influence impact on the region’s economy, transforming a once vibrant commercial town of Bawku into a ghost town.

To this end, the associations stressed the urgency of restoring peace to prevent further unnecessary deaths.

According to the associations, the conflict’s consequences could not be limited to Bawku alone. They claimed the nearby towns like Bolgatanga and Navrongo were experiencing increased pressure and stress on public and private institutions.

The associations affirmed their commitment to working proactively with the security agencies to contain the conflict and ensure the peace and stability of broader Upper East region.

The associations made several appeals to the stakeholders in the Bawku conflict resolution including an appeal to Mamprugu Overload Nayiri and Mamprusi youth to cease actions that may escalate the conflict and prioritize peace.

The associations also called on the eminent Asantehene Committee led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to expedite the conflict resolution process for sustainable peace and urged the National Media Commission to take steps to close media houses that use their platforms to fuel the conflict.

Source: Ghana/Today.com.gh/Hamza Mohammed