The Government has announced a shift in its strategy for addressing the long-standing Bawku chieftaincy conflict, moving from a peacekeeping posture to active peace enforcement following a recent surge in violence in the area.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, July 27, 2025, the presidency stated that the escalation of the conflict threatens to derail the progress made in previous peacebuilding efforts and necessitates stronger intervention to protect lives and property.
To that end, the Ghana Armed Forces have been deployed to Bawku and other affected areas to enforce curfews and maintain law and order. The government states that all necessary measures will be taken to restore stability.
“The Ghana Armed Forces will take all necessary measures to protect lives and property,” the statement read. “We assure the public that this peace enforcement operation is aimed solely at ensuring the safety and security of all residents, including students.”
The Government commended His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his ongoing efforts to mediate the conflict, and acknowledged the vital roles played by the Nayiri and Zugraana in supporting a near-resolution.
However, officials say a recent spate of killings has reversed some of the progress and now calls for firmer action.
“Otumfuo’s mediation, with the genuine help of the Nayiri and Zugraana, had almost brought finality to the conflict until the very recent killings,” the statement noted. “This has necessitated drastic actions to protect all in the interests of the greater good.”
Residents in the affected areas are urged to remain calm, refrain from violence, and fully cooperate with the Armed Forces. Government acknowledged that the operation may cause inconvenience to law-abiding citizens but emphasized its commitment to restoring peace and long-term stability in the region.
The statement was signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP and Spokesperson to the President.
Meanwhile, the Bawku Senior High School has been temporarily closed by the Municipal Education Directorate following the fatal shooting of a third-year student, Hakim Kundima, on the school’s campus.
The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has also reviewed of the curfew hours imposed on Bawku Municipality and its adjoining communities in the Upper East Region.
Effective Sunday, July 27, 2025, the new curfew hours will run from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. daily, until further notice. The adjustment was made based on the advice of the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and issued by Executive Instrument.
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