The recent surge in violence in Bawku has triggered a passionate plea from the Minority in Parliament for the immediate depoliticisation of the conflict and a more nationalistic approach to resolving the crisis. Speaking on Joy News' PM Express, the Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, expressed deep concern over the rising death toll and the overall deterioration of life in the area.
Rev. Fordjour noted that the escalation has resulted in people living in constant fear, with children unable to attend school and essential services like education and healthcare brought to a standstill. He stressed that professionals such as teachers, doctors, and nurses are now reluctant to accept postings to the area, further crippling humanitarian and developmental efforts.
A particularly alarming development, he said, is the emergence of open confrontations between security forces and some youth believed to be aligned with one of the feuding factions. The conflict, once largely rooted in traditional and tribal grievances, has reportedly shifted into a dangerous phase where the very agents of peace and order are being attacked.
Rev. Fordjour emphasized that the presence of sophisticated weaponry among the factions has emboldened them, creating a volatile environment. He called on the government to urgently investigate and stop the flow of such weapons into the region.
The Minority’s message was clear: all political actors must rise above partisanship and unite in the interest of national peace. Rev. Fordjour strongly condemned attempts to link the conflict’s intensity to political parties in power. He urged all sides to refrain from political rhetoric that could inflame tensions, stressing that Bawku's crisis is rooted in traditional chieftaincy disputes, not political ideologies.
He pointed out that efforts like the Otumfuo-led mediation should be given space to thrive without political interference. According to him, this traditional route holds the key to long-lasting peace in the area.
The Minority also extended condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and sympathies to individuals who have suffered injuries or property damage during the conflict. Their message was one of calm, unity, and immediate action to prevent further escalation.
Rev. Fordjour concluded by reaffirming the Minority’s willingness to collaborate with the government in any honest and non-political peace initiative. He emphasized that the time to act is now, urging the nation to come together to ensure that peace and stability are restored to Bawku.
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