The Government of Ghana, through the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Alhaji Muntaka Mubarak has reinforced its warning to residents of Bawku and its environs about the total ban on the possession of arms, ammunition, and offensive weapons. This directive comes as part of heightened efforts to curb escalating tensions and restore peace in the conflict-prone area.
In a strongly-worded statement issued following the renewal of the curfew imposed on the Bawku Municipality and its surrounding communities in the Upper East Region, the Minister emphasized that any individual found in breach of this directive would face swift arrest and prosecution.
“Let it be reiterated that there is a total ban on the possession of arms, ammunition, or offensive weapons by all persons in Bawku and its environs. Anyone found with such items will be arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” Hon. Muntaka Mubarak declared.
The curfew, which has been extended, remains in effect from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. daily, starting Monday, March 3, 2025. This measure is part of a broader strategy to maintain order and protect lives amid ongoing tensions.
Call for Peace and Restraint
The government has appealed to Chiefs, Elders, Opinion Leaders, and the youth within the area to exercise restraint and prioritize dialogue over violence. Residents are urged to channel their grievances through peaceful and non-violent means to foster sustainable reconciliation and stability.
In a bid to address the prolonged conflict comprehensively, the Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah recently convened a high-level meeting with the Interior Minister, Hon. Muntaka Mubarak, the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central and Majority Leader, Hon. Mahama Ayariga and other key stakeholders.
Roadmap to Lasting Peace
Following the meeting, Dr. Omane Boamah issued a statement titled “An Important Meeting Update on Bawku,” outlining the government’s commitment to pursuing a roadmap toward resolving the conflict through traditional and inclusive methods.
“Today, I had the privilege of meeting with the 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. Together, we reviewed the current security situation in Bawku.
“As President John Dramani Mahama has assured, the government remains dedicated to implementing a comprehensive roadmap that leverages traditional mechanisms to resolve the conflict,” Dr. Omane Boamah stated.
He reaffirmed the administration’s determination to restore peace and stability to Bawku and other affected communities, stressing that resolving the conflict is a national priority.
Government’s Position
The government’s multi-pronged approach, combining strict security measures and dialogue with local stakeholders, signals its resolve to end the recurrent hostilities in Bawku. Residents are urged to cooperate with security forces and community leaders to ensure that peace efforts yield lasting results.
The Bawku crisis has long been a flashpoint of ethnic and chieftaincy disputes, causing significant social and economic disruptions. The government’s renewed focus on enforcement and dialogue underscores its commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting harmony in the area.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
