Stephen Asamoah Boateng, the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has asked the groups in Bawku who are in conflict to stop using politics to blame each other about this sensitive situation.
He issued this warning following the recent killing of 16 people. The recent chaos was a result of the return of Seidu Abagre to Bawku on October 24, after his controversial eNskinment as Bawku Naba in February 2023.
Despite the absence of legal recognition for this title, his presence has heightened tensions between rival factions, leading to several clashes.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, October 29, Mr. Asamoah Boateng called on the factions to facilitate the resolution of the crisis to restore peace.
He stated that the government is aware of the misinterpretations by the factions involved, which appear to be escalating the situation.
Acknowledging the mistrust that has developed over the past week, he reassured all parties that the confidence they have in him, especially as the Minister for Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as in the government, must be upheld.
“Government is guided by its responsibility to protect lives and property and above all to enforce law and order to restore normalcy as quickly as possible.
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“Government will keep listening to you and act impartiality. To build and maintain the peace in Bawku and its environs, no one should play politics with this sensitive matter.
“I will continue to engage with my colleagues in the political arena from all sides to work with government to resolve the current problem and to work towards lasting peace in the area,” he added.
Mr Asamoah Boateng called on the traditional leaders in Bawku to desist from any acts that would escalate the situation.
He also revealed that distinguished chiefs, headed by the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu, will be involved in efforts to establish lasting peace in the region.
