A security analyst, Emmanuel Kotin, has warned that only resolute political will can douse the flames of violence raging in Bawku, as tensions in the conflict-ridden area continue to mount.
The resurgence of violence has prompted the Mahama-led administration to race against time to find a lasting solution to the decades-old crisis in Bawku, which has reportedly claimed over 40 lives in just seven months.
President John Dramani Mahama, expressing deep concern over the situation, has tasked a group of eminent chiefs, led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to resume peace mediation efforts and also reiterated his commitment to restoring peace in Bawku.
“I urge all sides to embrace peace as we engage in dialogue to resolve these long-standing disputes,” he stated. “The recent incident in the marketplace, which led to the loss of lives and destruction of property, is a reminder that no one gains from violence and insecurity.”
Speaking to Starr News on the back of this, Mr. Kotin while welcoming the involvement of the eminent chiefs also called on the feuding factions to seek redress through the Supreme Court for a sustainable resolution.
“As peacebuilders, we remain neutral. But what is the essence of democracy without law enforcement?” Kotin questioned.
“If anyone feels their rights have been infringed upon, the courts are the proper avenue — unless, of course, we no longer trust our judicial system. Take the Dagbon case, for instance. Once the Supreme Court gave its ruling, it empowered the state to enforce it. We need a similar approach in Bawku to determine, once and for all, who the legitimate chief is.”
Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno has pledged to pursue lasting peace in the area.
“I want to assure the people that they can be considered for police recruitment,” Yohuno said. “They must first lay down their arms and go through the normal process like everyone else.”
However, the IGP’s comments have drawn criticism from Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, who described them as “unfortunate and inappropriate.”
“The IGP’s remarks — his first major public statement — may have been made in the heat of the moment, but they carry serious implications,” said the Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP. “To suggest that laying down arms qualifies one for police recruitment is out of place. From an IGP, this is particularly concerning.”
Source: Ghana/StarrFM103.5FM/Benjamin Sackey
