Former Defense Minister Dominic Nitiwul has reflected on the efforts of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government to address the long-standing conflict in Bawku. In an interview with Joy News, Nitiwul acknowledged the progress made in maintaining stability but expressed regret over the inability to achieve lasting peace during their tenure.
“We did whatever we needed to do to keep peace in Bawku, but we wanted to achieve total peace, and that eluded us,” Nitiwul stated. He detailed various measures, such as deploying security forces, encouraging dialogue among stakeholders, and working with traditional leaders. While these efforts brought temporary stability, they did not lead to a permanent resolution.
Nitiwul emphasized that peace in Bawku was a top priority for the NPP government, citing former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s acknowledgment of the issue in his final State of the Nation Address.
“And for the [former] president to find space and mention that in his last State of the Nation Address, that he regrets that we couldn’t find total peace in Bawku, that alone tells how he views the issue of Bawku and what he wants to leave, or the message he wants to leave for the incoming president to look at Bawku critically. The government should engender trust in the people. That’s the first thing the government needs to do.”
The conflict in Bawku, primarily involving the Kusasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups, is deeply rooted in historical and chieftaincy disputes. Over the years, it has led to numerous casualties, including 41 deaths in the latest clashes.
Nitiwul’s remarks echo the urgency for sustained efforts to foster trust and achieve lasting peace in the region.
