The John Mahama administration has announced a major shift in its strategy to tackle the protracted chieftaincy conflict in Bawku, moving from a peacekeeping approach to what it calls “peace enforcement” following a fresh wave of deadly violence in the area.
In a statement issued on Sunday (27 July) the presidency said the escalation threatens to undo years of peacebuilding efforts and requires urgent, firmer intervention.
The Ghana Armed Forces have since been deployed to Bawku and other conflict-prone areas to enforce curfews and maintain law and order.
“The Ghana Armed Forces will take all necessary measures to protect lives and property,” the statement said, assuring the public that the operation’s sole objective is to ensure the safety of residents, including students.
The presidency commended the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, as well as the Nayiri and Zugraana, for their roles in near-breakthrough talks aimed at ending the decades-old chieftaincy impasse. However, recent killings are said to have reversed much of the progress.
“Otumfuo’s mediation, with the genuine help of the Nayiri and Zugraana, had almost brought finality to the conflict until the very recent killings,” the statement noted.
Residents are being urged to remain calm and cooperate fully with security forces. While acknowledging the possible inconvenience to civilians, the government said the measure is necessary to protect the greater good and ensure long-term stability.
The announcement follows the killing of a third-year student, Hakim Kundima, at Bawku Senior High School on Saturday night. The school has since been temporarily closed by the Municipal Education Directorate over safety concerns.
In response to the deteriorating situation, the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has also reviewed the curfew hours in Bawku Municipality and its adjoining communities. Effective Sunday, the new hours will run from 2:00pm to 6:00am daily.
The curfew was imposed based on the advice of the Upper East Regional Security Council. The government says all persons found in possession of arms or ammunition during this period will be arrested and prosecuted.
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