Bawku Conflict: Chieftaincy Minister Calls For Cease-Fire

The Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng has urged feuding factions in the Bawku conflict to lay down their weapons to make way for dialogue in the resolution process.

“I strongly call on the traditional leaders from both sides to refrain from any act that will escalate the situation. I want to call on all sides to lay down their tools and cease-fire,” he said at a press conference on October 28, 2024.

He also discouraged conspiracy theories and politicization of the conflict as he emphasized the sensitivity of the issue.

“I will implore all sides to stop the conspiracy theories going around and the blame games and keep calm and allow the government to deal with the security and chieftaincy issues therefore.

“No one should play politics with this sensitive matter and I will continue to engage my colleagues in the political arena from all sides to work with the government to resolve the current problems and work towards lasting peace in the area.”

Additionally, he assured of the government’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and stability in the town.

“I wish to reiterate our press release yesterday {hat} government is committed to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the people of Bawku and its environs.”

Renewed Clash
On Sunday, reports indicated that eight people were killed when the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway was blocked by gunmen who opened fire on oncoming vehicles.

This followed Saturday night’s gun battle that claimed two lives and maimed numerous others.

This was stoked by the return of Mr Seidu Abagre- who was allegedly illegally enskinned as Bawku Naba in February 2023- to the town on October 24 after he was an arrest warrant was issued against him was subsequently quashed by the Court of Appeal in Kumasi.

According to a statement issued by the Deputy Minister of Interior, Hon Naana Eyiah, on October 28, 2024, the continuous presence of Mr. Seidu Abagre in Bawku poses a substantial threat to public safety and security.

“Unfortunately, these disturbances have resulted in the loss of numerous lives in Bawku and its environs, with a looming threat of escalation beyond Bawku.”

Curfew
Following the renewal of the tension, an emergency National Security meeting was held on October 28, under the chairmanship of the President of the Republic which decided to impose a curfew on the town.

“Based on assessments by national security agencies, the continued presence of Mr. Seidu Abagre in Bawku poses a substantial threat to public safety and security. In light of the foregoing, pursuant to the provisions of the Public Order Act, 1994 (Act 491), a curfew is, hereby, imposed on Bawku from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, commencing today, Monday, 28″ October 2024, until further notice.”

Conflict
The Bawku conflict between the Mamprusis and the Kusasis began in 1932 when both factions sought to impose their legitimacy over the town.

According to Rev Professor John Zumah, the Executive Director of the Sanneh Institute and Visiting Professor of Yale University, the issue is not so much as to who is the legitimate Bawku Naba currently, but whose traditional homeland is Bawku.

The conflict has claimed the lives of many as well as millions of cedis. The Africa Report says 20 people died between December 2022 and February 2023 as a result of the conflict.

Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini