On the night of November 20, 2024, between 8:00 pm and 9:00 pm, an alarming incident unfolded in Bawku, intensifying the already volatile situation in the region. During the curfew hours, a red commercial bus was spotted being escorted by military personnel. The vehicle was reportedly carrying a significant cache of ammunition and weapons, allegedly intended for the Mamprusi faction in the conflict-ridden area. When concerned citizens intercepted the bus to question its movements during restricted hours, they were met with gunfire. The military personnel reportedly opened fire on the unarmed civilians, creating fear and chaos before ultimately delivering the weapons to the Mamprusi faction in the Bawku township.
This incident is not an isolated event but part of a series of actions that suggest a disturbing trend. Recently, during the voter transfer exercise, over 2,000 votes were relocated out of Bawku to constituencies like Abetifi and Kasoa. This strategic move has been perceived as an attempt to undermine the electoral process in Bawku. It is alleged that this relocation was orchestrated with the backing of the government, led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Security escorts were reportedly provided to facilitate the transfer of these voters, whom the orchestrators deemed vulnerable and incapable of resisting their broader plans to destabilize Bawku during the upcoming elections.
Eyewitness accounts have reported the arrival of nine buses and three trucks carrying individuals labeled as vulnerable. However, the real motive appears to be more sinister. It is alleged that this operation is part of a larger plan to bring in armed warriors and weapons, with the ultimate goal of boycotting the elections in Bawku. This tactic, coupled with sporadic gunfire during nighttime hours, is aimed at creating the impression that Bawku is in a perpetual state of war. Such actions not only instill fear among residents but also tarnish the town's image, making it difficult to hold peaceful and credible elections.
The situation escalated further on November 19, 2024, when four buses filled with young men—reportedly with no female passengers—were escorted into Bawku. Reliable sources claim these individuals were brought in under dubious circumstances. The next day, another bus loaded with ammunition and weapons entered the town, further deepening suspicions and heightening tensions. These events point to a coordinated effort to destabilize the region, and the military's involvement raises serious questions about their impartiality and professionalism in handling the conflict.
The residents of Bawku are understandably alarmed and frustrated. There is growing anger at the military’s actions, which many perceive as biased and unprofessional. One particularly contentious issue is the alleged escort of Mamprusi women to patronize the Zugraan market, a move seen as provocative and unnecessary. The people of Bawku are questioning why the military appears to favor one faction over the other, and their patience is wearing thin.
In light of these developments, the youth of Bawku are calling on the overlord of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Zugraan Bawku Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, to take decisive action. While they recognize and respect the Zugraan's reputation as a peace-loving leader, they urge him to adopt traditional measures to address the situation. Specifically, they suggest pouring libation to the gods to compel any security personnel visiting him to testify to their loyalty to the people of Bawku. This symbolic act would serve as a powerful statement and a test of the military’s intentions in the area.
The youth also advocate for stricter measures to hold the military accountable. They believe that if the Mamprusi faction claims authority in Bawku, they should be able to move freely without the need for military escorts. Moreover, if they truly respect Ablai Fitter, the acknowledged figure of authority, they should seek his permission rather than bypassing him to approach the Zugraan. This disregard for established authority structures only serves to inflame tensions and undermine efforts to restore peace in the region.
The people of Bawku are demanding an immediate end to the military's perceived partiality and unprofessional behavior. They are calling for transparent investigations into the recent incidents and the role of the military in the conflict. The youth have made it clear that they will no longer tolerate actions that exacerbate the already fragile situation in Bawku.
As tensions continue to rise, the need for dialogue and reconciliation has never been more urgent. The people of Bawku are resolute in their desire for peace and stability, but they also demand justice and fairness. The military must be called to order, and all stakeholders must work together to de-escalate the conflict. Only through mutual respect and genuine efforts at reconciliation can the region hope to achieve lasting peace.
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