The Concerned Youth of Binduri has issued a pressing statement addressing what they describe as the ongoing harassment, extortion, and molestation of residents in the Binduri District by military personnel allegedly deployed under the directive of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The group accuses the military of acting unprofessionally, targeting the Kusasi ethnic group, and exceeding their mandate in the region.
The group alleges that the soldiers, under the supervision of Colonel Hooper, have overstepped their authority by imposing unwarranted restrictions on the Binduri District, which is not officially part of the conflict-prone Bawku Municipality. The youth believe these actions are politically motivated and are being executed as a form of punishment following the electoral outcome in the district, where Vice President Bawumia reportedly received minimal support.
### Allegations of Excessive Force and Targeted Harassment
The statement from the youth raises serious concerns about the conduct of military personnel stationed in the area. According to them, the soldiers have been enforcing non-existent curfews in Binduri and indiscriminately assaulting civilians with high-tension wires and sticks. These actions, the group argues, are unjustified and violate the fundamental human rights of residents.
The Concerned Youth of Binduri also question the rationale behind the military’s operations in the district, noting that Binduri has not been officially included in the curfew restrictions imposed on Bawku and its immediate environs by the Interior Ministry. They argue that the military’s presence in the district is not only unwarranted but also appears to be part of a deliberate agenda to intimidate and victimize the Kusasi people.
The group asserts that while the military justifies their presence in Binduri by citing the district’s proximity to Bawku, they have failed to act with the same level of vigilance in other areas near the conflict zone, such as neighboring Burkina Faso. This inconsistency, they argue, raises questions about the true intentions behind the military’s actions.
### Extortion and Confiscation of Motorbikes
One of the most troubling allegations made by the Concerned Youth of Binduri is the claim that soldiers have been confiscating motorbikes from residents and demanding bribes for their release. According to the group, residents are forced to pay GHS 350 to retrieve their motorbikes, with many bikes reportedly being taken to Tamale, Bolgatanga, and other locations where they are allegedly distributed to the soldiers’ partners.
The group claims that some of these confiscated motorbikes are given to girlfriends and wives of the soldiers, bypassing lawful procedures for handling seized property. They argue that this practice not only constitutes an abuse of power but also undermines the credibility of the military institution.
### Questions About the Military’s Mandate
The youth group questions whether the military has the authority to enforce laws outside the directives of the Interior Ministry. They argue that the military’s actions in Binduri resemble those of customs officers rather than peacekeepers. By confiscating property, imposing unofficial bans on motorbike usage, and physically assaulting civilians, the soldiers are allegedly exceeding their mandate and operating outside the bounds of the law.
The group also highlights the contradiction in the military’s approach to maintaining peace. They point out that while the military avoids engaging heavily armed groups in Bawku, they appear comfortable using excessive force against unarmed civilians in Binduri. This, they argue, suggests a deliberate targeting of vulnerable populations rather than a genuine effort to restore peace and order.
### Calls for Accountability
The Concerned Youth of Binduri are calling on the military high command, the Ghanaian government, and international observers to investigate the alleged misconduct of soldiers stationed in the district. They demand an immediate end to the harassment and extortion of residents, as well as a review of the military’s operations in the region.
The group also calls for the withdrawal of Colonel Hooper and his team from Binduri, arguing that their continued presence poses a threat to the safety and well-being of residents. They urge the military to adhere to its core mandate of maintaining peace and security rather than engaging in what they describe as politically motivated acts of intimidation.
### A Plea for Justice
In their statement, the Concerned Youth of Binduri express their frustration and disappointment with the current state of affairs. They argue that the military’s actions are eroding public trust in an institution that is supposed to protect citizens, not oppress them.
The group warns that the continued harassment of residents could escalate tensions in the region and potentially draw Binduri into the conflict currently confined to Bawku. They appeal to the government to act swiftly to prevent further deterioration of the situation and to ensure that the rights of all citizens are respected.
### Broader Implications
The allegations raised by the Concerned Youth of Binduri have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s democratic values and the rule of law. If left unaddressed, the situation could undermine the credibility of the military and erode public confidence in the government’s ability to uphold justice and equality.
The group’s call for accountability underscores the need for transparency and oversight in the operations of security forces. It also highlights the importance of ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their ethnicity or political affiliations, are treated with dignity and respect.
As the Binduri District grapples with these challenges, the Concerned Youth are hopeful that their plea for justice will resonate with authorities and lead to meaningful action. They urge all stakeholders, including the media and civil society organizations, to amplify their voices and demand accountability from those in power.
### Conclusion
The allegations of harassment, extortion, and misconduct by military personnel in Binduri District present a troubling picture of abuse of power and disregard for human rights. The Concerned Youth of Binduri have taken a bold step in bringing these issues to light, but the onus now lies with the government and military leadership to address these concerns and restore public confidence.
The people of Binduri deserve better, and their call for justice serves as a reminder that no institution or individual is above the law. It is imperative for the authorities to act decisively to protect the rights of all citizens and uphold the principles of fairness and accountability that are the bedrock of Ghana’s democracy.
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The Concerned Youth of Binduri also question the rationale behind the military’s operations in the district, noting that Binduri has not been officially included in the curfew restrictions imposed on Bawku and its immediate environs by the Interior Ministry. They argue that the military’s presence in the district is not only unwarranted but also appears to be part of a deliberate agenda to intimidate and victimize the Kusasi people. 
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