20 hours ago
The Kusaug Peoples Congress (KPC) stands firm in its commitment to ensuring that the people of the Kusaug Traditional Area are not disenfranchised during the upcoming general elections. As we approach the polls, rumors and concerns have surfaced regarding the Electoral Commission (EC) potentially using the security situation in Bawku as an excuse to restrict voting in the six constituencies of the Kusaug Traditional Area. In light of these concerns, the Kusaug Peoples Congress wishes to make it clear that the right to vote for the people of Kusaug is non-negotiable, and we will not allow any efforts to silence our voice in this critical national exercise.
We understand that the situation in Bawku has been difficult, and we are deeply aware of the challenges the region has faced over the past three years. However, we believe that this should not be used as an excuse to deny our people their basic right to participate in the democratic process. The people of Kusaug have endured significant hardship, and we are committed to maintaining peace and stability throughout our areas, including Bawku, during this election period. We expect all parties, including the Mamprusis and their allies, to show the same level of commitment to peace, ensuring that the election process remains free and fair for everyone.
The ongoing conflict in Bawku is a direct result of a lack of political will from the government to address the situation impartially. Elements within various government agencies have been complicit in perpetuating the conflict, which has now spread to other regions, including Bolgatanga, Walewale, and even the North East Region. These tensions, however, should not interfere with the election process.
There is a heavy military and police presence in Bawku, which should be more than adequate to provide the necessary security for peaceful elections. The primary duty of the security forces should be to ensure that every citizen is able to vote safely and without fear. In the past, we have seen the security forces deployed primarily to protect the Mamprusis and their allies, with soldiers providing escorts for Mamprusi civilians even for routine activities like shopping. However, public institutions such as banks, schools, and hospitals have not received the same level of attention. This disparity raises serious concerns about the impartiality of the security presence and the potential for exploitation of the situation as a cover for further violence or the imposition of a state of emergency that could restrict our right to vote.
We are particularly concerned about recent reports that Mamprusi women and children have been relocated out of Bawku, and there are fears that young Mamprusi men may be left behind with weapons, potentially to escalate tensions around election time. If any efforts are made to create chaos and justify the imposition of a state of emergency, the Kusaug Peoples Congress will strongly resist such attempts. We will not allow anyone to use the security situation as an excuse to disenfranchise our people, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that every Kusaug citizen has the opportunity to cast their vote on election day.
The Kusaug Peoples Congress firmly believes that the security forces in Bawku, when given the freedom to operate without bias, are more than capable of maintaining peace and ensuring that the elections are conducted in a safe and fair manner. We have always been dedicated to defending our identity, our culture, and our land, and we are prepared to stand up for our right to participate fully in the democratic process. The Kusaug people will not compromise on this fundamental right, and we will not allow anyone to take it from us.
The people of Kusaug have long demonstrated their resilience and determination to overcome adversity, and we are committed to doing so once again in the face of any challenges that may arise during this election. We will not allow our voices to be silenced, and we will not allow anyone to rob us of our ability to vote and have a say in the future of our country.
As Ghanaians, we all share a responsibility to ensure that the upcoming elections are free, fair, and peaceful. The Kusaug Peoples Congress stands ready to work with all stakeholders to achieve this goal and ensure that the people of Kusaug are able to exercise their right to vote without fear or intimidation. We call on the Electoral Commission, the government, and all other relevant authorities to guarantee that the election process in the Kusaug Traditional Area is inclusive and equitable.
Kusaug will not be silenced. We are prepared to defend our rights, our land, and our future. Kusaug Winnig Tansya!
Rev. Prof. John Azumah
President – Kusaug Peoples Congress
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