It’s regrettable we were unable to restore peace in Bawku – Nitiwul

Former Minister of Defense, Dominic Nitiwul, has reflected on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government’s efforts to address the longstanding conflict in Bawku during its tenure.

In an interview with Joy News, Nitiwul acknowledged that while significant strides were made to maintain stability, the inability to achieve lasting peace remains a notable regret for the outgoing administration.

“To say that we did not do anything is wrong. We did whatever we needed to do to keep peace in Bawku, but we wanted to achieve total peace, and that eluded us. So that would be the regret that I will say we have,” he stated.

He elaborated on the measures taken by the government, which included deploying security forces, fostering dialogue among stakeholders, and collaborating with traditional and community leaders. Despite these efforts yielding temporary stability, they did not result in a long-term resolution to the conflict.

Nitiwul underscored the importance of peace in Bawku, emphasizing its prominence on the NPP government’s agenda. He highlighted former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s acknowledgement of the issue during 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.