Despite ongoing tensions and security concerns in the Bawku Central constituency, the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has affirmed its preparedness to conduct the upcoming December 7, 2024, elections in the area. This assurance comes amidst widespread fears that escalating conflict might hinder residents from exercising their right to vote.
The Upper East Regional Director of the EC, William Obeng Adarkwa, speaking to Citi News, emphasized that the commission is working in close partnership with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process. Adarkwa reassured citizens that all necessary preparations are being made, and the EC remains committed to upholding its constitutional mandate despite the challenges.
“As a commission, we are prepared. As you know, the issue here in Bawku is purely a security matter, so when it comes to the general security for a particular place or community, it is the Ghana Police Service who is in charge. We are liaising with them every day, and they are updating us. We are going ahead to train our officials and give them the necessary skills to conduct the elections,” he explained.
Adarkwa also appealed to the people of Bawku to foster a peaceful environment that would enable EC officials to deploy materials and personnel to designated polling stations. He called for collective effort in maintaining calm, emphasizing that peace is essential for free and fair elections.
The assurance from the EC comes against the backdrop of renewed ethnic tensions in Bawku. The unrest escalated following the return of Seidu Abagre, a rival chief installed by the Nayiri, on October 26, 2024. Abagre had been in exile since February 2023 after an arrest warrant was issued in connection with his contested chieftaincy installation. However, the Kumasi High Court quashed the warrant on October 17, 2024, clearing the way for his return.
His reappearance has reignited a long-standing chieftaincy dispute in the area, sparking violent clashes. These confrontations have claimed at least two lives and left several others injured. The ongoing violence has disrupted essential services in the town, affecting the livelihoods of residents and casting doubt on the feasibility of holding elections in such a volatile atmosphere.
The situation in Bawku has also led to the imposition of a curfew from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., enforced by security personnel to maintain order. Essential services, including education, water supply, and electricity, have been severely disrupted. Schools have been closed as teachers and students vacated the area due to safety concerns. Additionally, the Ghana Water Company Limited and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) have suspended operations, leaving residents with limited access to basic utilities.
The EC’s declaration of readiness is seen as a critical step in maintaining the democratic process in one of Ghana’s most challenging constituencies. However, the success of the elections in Bawku will heavily depend on the ability of security forces to ensure safety for voters, electoral officials, and other stakeholders involved in the process.
Adarkwa highlighted the collaborative efforts between the EC and the Ghana Police Service, stating, “We appeal to the people themselves to create an atmosphere that is so peaceful so that we can have our officials and materials at various designated places to conduct the elections as mandated by the constitution.”
Bawku’s chieftaincy conflict has been a long-standing issue, and its ripple effects continue to challenge the socio-political stability of the region. The recent escalation underscores the delicate balance that authorities must strike between addressing local grievances and upholding the democratic process.
Political analysts have expressed mixed reactions to the EC’s confidence in proceeding with the elections. While some commend the proactive measures being taken to safeguard the process, others caution that unresolved tensions could compromise the integrity of the elections or deter voter turnout.
Despite these challenges, the EC remains resolute. Training for election officials in Bawku is ongoing, with a focus on equipping them to handle the unique challenges that may arise on election day. The EC’s commitment to fulfilling its constitutional duties, even in the face of adversity, underscores the resilience of Ghana’s democratic institutions.
The December 7 elections are a pivotal moment for Bawku Central and the nation at large. As the day approaches, all eyes will be on the constituency to see how effectively the EC, security agencies, and residents navigate the complex dynamics at play.
In the meantime, residents of Bawku are urged to prioritize peace and unity, recognizing the importance of their participation in shaping the future of their community and the country. The EC’s assurance offers hope that, with collective effort, the elections can proceed smoothly, serving as a testament to the strength of Ghana’s democracy even in the most challenging circumstances.
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