The Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, described the situation in Bawku and surrounding areas as volatile, but assured that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is actively monitoring developments and is fully prepared to handle any escalation. He presented an update on the state of the defence sector on Monday, July 21, and stated that the military has deployed robust measures in Bawku, Alavanyo, and nearby communities to ensure stability and protect lives.
“We acknowledge that the situation in Bawku, Alavanyo, and their immediate surroundings remains volatile. The Ghana Armed Forces is actively monitoring the situation and has implemented strong measures to swiftly contain any potential escalation in the interest of the people and to seek a long-lasting resolution to the conflict through dialogue,” he said.
Dr. Omane Boamah emphasized that while the government is committed to a peaceful resolution, it will take appropriate action against criminal elements that exploit the conflict for their own gain.
In doing so, we shall always separate crimes from traditional matters, enabling us to deal appropriately and legally with criminals who foment trouble in the name of chieftaincy conflict,” he said. The Defence Minister’s statement comes at a time when tensions remain high in parts of the Upper East, where ethnic and chieftaincy-related disputes have led to insecurity and displacement. Government has reiterated its commitment to dialogue and law enforcement as a dual strategy to secure peace in the affected communities.
By: Patricia Boakye
