The Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, has reassured residents of Bawku in the Upper East Region that the government is committed to using legitimate means and the rule of law to resolve the protracted ethnic conflict in the area.
The Bawku ethnic conflict has lasted for years, resulting in the loss of lives and property and making the vibrant business hub municipality a ghost town with high attrition of public sector workers to safer areas to work. As a result, stakeholders have appealed to the government to find a lasting solution to the conflict.
During a working visit to the Bawku Naba’s palace on April 15, 2023, Mr Stephen Boateng reassured residents of the government’s commitment to using dialogue and the rule of law in bringing lasting peace to Bawku. He said, “We believe in the rule of law and the job of any government is to maintain peace and order. If you wake up in the morning, you must be free enough to do what you want to do, and it is the state’s responsibility to protect you.”
He also appealed for the goodwill and blessings of the Bawku Naba, Zugraan Asigri Abugrago Azorka II, to help his outfit resolve the Bawku ethnic impasse. He reiterated that his outfit was ever ready to provide clarity on any issue(s) or concerns of the Bawku Naba.
The overlord of Mamprugu, the Nayire, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, was also visited by the Minister to discuss the road map for bringing lasting peace to Bawku.
Zugraan Azorka II commended Mr Stephen Boateng for the visit to his traditional area and urged him to use his office to ensure the restoration of law and order in Bawku whilst working on lasting peace for the area.
The government’s commitment to using legitimate means and the rule of law to resolve the protracted ethnic conflict in Bawku has been well received by residents. They are hopeful that the visit of the Minister and the discussions held with traditional leaders will lead to a lasting solution to the conflict, allowing the municipality to thrive once again.