During a campaign tour in Zebilla, former President John Mahama made bold statements regarding the ongoing conflict in Bawku, asserting that political motives, rather than ethnic tensions, are fueling the unrest. Mahama criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government for its inability to maintain peace in the region, drawing a stark contrast between the current administration and his National Democratic Congress (NDC) party.
“People benefit from the fight in Bawku. Anytime this NPP government is in power, there’s no peace in Bawku,” Mahama declared. He dismissed the government’s narrative that the conflict is merely an ethnic dispute, insisting instead that political forces are deliberately exacerbating the crisis for their own gain. “There’s politics behind it, and there are people who deliberately fan these crises,” he added.
Mahama emphasized the widespread desire for peace among the residents of Bawku, highlighting the negative impact of the conflict on daily life and business activities. “Everyone wants peace in Bawku so that they can do business and have their daily bread,” he said, underscoring the urgent need for stability in the region.
Promising a different approach under NDC leadership, Mahama assured the people of Bawku that his party would bring peace to the region. “When NDC comes to power or governance, it will bring peace,” he vowed, positioning the NDC as the solution to the ongoing strife and a beacon of hope for the residents.
The former president’s remarks resonate with the frustrations of many who feel trapped by the cycle of violence and instability. The conflict in Bawku has not only disrupted the lives of its inhabitants but has also stifled economic growth and development in the area. Mahama’s pledge to restore peace aims to address these issues, offering a vision of a stable and prosperous future for Bawku.
As the election approaches, Mahama’s statements are likely to garner significant attention, particularly in regions affected by conflict. His focus on peace and security, coupled with a critique of the current government’s handling of the situation, highlights the contrasting approaches of the NDC and NPP in dealing with regional conflicts.
The campaign trail continues, with Mahama and the NDC seeking to win the hearts and minds of voters by promising tangible improvements in areas plagued by unrest. Whether this message will resonate enough to sway the electorate remains to be seen, but the call for peace in Bawku is a powerful and timely appeal that underscores the importance of stability for economic and social progress.
