Kumasi, Ghana — By: Evans Osei-Bonsu
Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to peace in Bawku, stating that the Ghana Armed Forces remain fully engaged in monitoring and responding to the volatile security situation in the area.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra, Dr. Boamah acknowledged that while Ghana remains broadly “safe, stable, peaceful,” Bawku and Alavanyo stand out as flashpoints requiring sustained attention.
“While the overall internal and external security of Ghana remains stable, we acknowledge that the situation in Bawku and Alavanyo and their immediate surroundings remains quite volatile,” he said.
Dr. Boamah noted that the Armed Forces have deployed robust systems to contain any potential escalation, stressing that a long-lasting solution will be anchored on dialogue and the rule of law.
“The Ghana Armed Forces is actively monitoring developments and have put in place robust mechanisms to ensure any potential escalation is swiftly contained in the interest of a peaceful and long-lasting resolution of the conflicts through dialogue,” he said.
In a firm warning to those who exploit traditional chieftaincy disputes to fuel violence, Dr. Boamah emphasized that the military will continue to separate criminal actions from legitimate cultural matters.
“We shall always separate crime from traditional matters, enabling us to deal appropriately and legally with criminals who foment trouble in the name of chieftaincy conflicts,” he added.
The Minister also addressed concerns over the destruction of a statue belonging to the Zugran (Paramount Chief) of the Kusaug Traditional Area in Bawku—a development that stirred tension in the region.
“Let me assure once again that Government has decided to take necessary steps to reconstruct the statue of the Zugran of the Kusaug Traditional Area in Bawku while investigations into the incident continue,” he stated.
Bawku has, in recent years, experienced cycles of violence linked to longstanding ethnic and chieftaincy tensions. The government’s response has often involved a combination of military presence, curfews, and conflict resolution mechanisms.
The Defence Minister’s comments signal a continued effort to pursue peace while maintaining order through lawful and measured interventions.
