Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of Ghana, has urged all parties involved in the Bawku conflict to work together with the government and other key actors in finding a peaceful solution to the longstanding dispute.
He stressed that peace was essential for Bawku to enjoy the development it needs.
Dr. Bawumia made these remarks when he met with the Chiefs and Queenmothers of the Upper East Region. He expressed his worry over the frequent attacks, injuries, and insecurity in Bawku.
He said he was saddened by the situation and appealed to the people to embrace unity instead of violence.
The Vice President also expressed optimism that the government’s initiatives, including those led by the House of Chiefs and the respected Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, would help to bring lasting peace to the area.
“As a son of the soil, I am pained by what is happening in Bawku. The conflict in Bawku is very unfortunate because we are one people, and we should live together and not fight. I hope that the initiatives that the government has started through the House of Chiefs and the Otumfuo will help us achieve lasting peace in the area.
“For us on the part of the government, we understand that to prevent conflict and to promote peace, we need to make sure that development in Ghana is inclusive. Everyone must feel part of the development that we see in the country. When people are excluded they are more vulnerable to extremist ideologies,” Dr Bawumia said.
Bawku has witnessed several conflicts over the past decade, resulting in many deaths.
