Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has urged Bawku residents to maintain peace and unity and to avoid politicizing the region’s worsening conflict.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, October 29, the Minister emphasized the government’s dedication to preserving peace in Bawku, which has been beset by continuous violence and instability, especially as a result of unresolved ethnic and chieftaincy conflicts.
The Minister’s remarks coincide with increased security concerns in the region after a deadly shooting attack on Sunday, October 27, near Gbimsi, a community near Walewale, along the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway.
Eight travelers lost their lives in the attack, which began with the gunmen questioning the passengers about their identities before they started shooting.
The deadly attack, which resulted in the burning of two vehicles, increased public anxiety and heightened calls for government action and peace.
Asamoah Boateng reassured the populace during his speech that the government is dedicated to working equitably with all parties involved through his ministry and cooperation with other pertinent bodies.
“I will implore all sides to stop the conspiracy theories going around and the blame games and keep calm and allow the government to deal with the security and chieftaincy issues therefore. No one should play politics with this sensitive matter and I will continue to engage my colleagues in the political arena from all sides to work with the government to resolve the current problems and work towards lasting peace in the area.”
“I strongly call on the traditional leaders from both sides to refrain from any act that will escalate the situation.”