Four prominent associations from the Upper East Region have come together to appeal for an expeditious resolution of the ongoing conflict in Bawku, expressing their trust in the Asantehene Committee to accomplish the task and achieve sustainable peace.
The associations include BONABOTO (The Association of the Citizens of Bolgatanga, Nangode, Bongo, Tongo) and their environs, Bissa Development Association, United Kassena-Nankana East Association, and Buluk Bisa Club.
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In a joint statement presented by Professor Samuel A. Atintono, BONABOTO National President, with Alhaji Shaibu Musah, Bissa Development Association President, Lawyer Seth Alafa, Buluk Bisa Club President, and several regional elders, the associations emphasized their confidence in the Asantehene Committee's leadership.
They believe the revered King has the wisdom and capacity to resolve the complex conflict in Bawku, stating that “He has done it before and has the wisdom and capacity to resolve the issue and unite our brothers in Bawku.”
The statement called on the conflicting parties to cooperate fully with the Asantehene Committee to find a lasting solution to the problem. It also appealed to the Nayiri, the Overlord of Mamprugu, and the youth from the area to refrain from actions that could escalate the conflict, recognizing the critical role of the Nayiri in restoring peace in Bawku.
Furthermore, the statement urged the Nayiri to make necessary concessions to end the conflict, especially for the sake of the youth, the vulnerable, women, and children who are suffering in Bawku. The associations also appealed to the Bawku Naba, Abugrago Azoka II, and the Kusasi youth to avoid actions that could worsen the situation and encouraged both sides to embrace peace and work together to build Bawku.
The associations called on the media to exercise caution in their reporting to prevent exacerbating the conflict, stating that the National Media Commission should sanction those responsible for fueling tensions. They also asked the national security apparatus and agents to monitor social media platforms for individuals inciting the conflict.
The statement urged the government to take decisive action against troublemakers, arrest, transport them to other regions, prosecute, and imprison those who incite trouble related to the conflict. The associations noted that the Bawku area had become a home to sophisticated weapons and requested security agencies to conduct searches and seize such weapons.
In their plea, they emphasized the urgency of achieving peace in Bawku for the revitalization of business and economic activities, concluding that unity and peace were essential for the region's development.
The statement summed up their resolve to be part of the solution, stating, “We the members of the associations of BONABOTO, the Bissa Development Association, Buluk Bisa Club, and United Kasena-Nankana East in the Upper East Region have resolved to be part of the solution of the Bawku conflict, and we look forward to meeting both the Kusasis and Mamprusis youth to chart the path for peace together.”
