The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has issued an Executive Instrument to renew the curfew hours in the Bawku Municipality and its surrounding areas in the Upper East Region. The new curfew hours, running from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM, take effect from Monday, February 17, 2025, as part of efforts to address ongoing security concerns in the region.
In a statement, the government appealed to traditional leaders, elders, opinion leaders, youth, and residents of the area to exercise restraint amidst the challenges facing their communities. The statement urged them to adopt peaceful, non-violent means to resolve disputes and contribute to fostering lasting peace.
As part of the measures, the government has imposed a total ban on carrying arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons in Bawku and its environs. The statement warned, “Any persons found with arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”
Security Meeting on Bawku Conflict
The renewed measures follow a high-level security meeting last week, where the Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, met with the Interior Minister, Hon. Muntaka Mubarak, and the Majority Leader and Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Hon. Mahama Ayariga. The meeting assessed the ongoing security situation in the municipality and explored strategies to quell tensions.
In a follow-up statement titled “An Important Meeting Update on Bawku,” Dr. Omane Boamah emphasized the government’s commitment to a comprehensive roadmap aimed at resolving the conflict. He noted that President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed the government’s intention to prioritize traditional mechanisms for conflict resolution.
“Today, I had the privilege of meeting with Interior Minister Hon. Muntaka Mubarak, the Chief of the Defence Staff, Majority Leader Hon. Mahama Ayariga, and other Members of Parliament at the Ministry of Defence,” Dr. Omane Boamah said. “We reviewed the current security situation in Bawku. As President John Dramani Mahama has assured the people, we will continue to follow the comprehensive roadmap to resolve this conflict through traditional means.”
A Call for Peace and Stability
Dr. Omane Boamah reiterated the government’s resolve to restore peace and stability in Bawku and other affected communities. “We must restore peace and stability to Bawku and its neighboring areas, and I am determined to support that cause,” he affirmed.
The Bawku Municipality has been plagued by sporadic conflicts over the years, often rooted in chieftaincy disputes and ethnic tensions. The government’s recent actions underscore its commitment to ensuring safety and fostering dialogue among all stakeholders to achieve long-lasting peace.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
