top of page

Regrettably, we were unable to resotore peace in Bawku - Nitiwul Speaks Out

  • Jan 15, 2025
  • 2 min read

Former Minister of Defense, Dominic Nitiwul, has shared reflections on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government’s attempts to address the protracted conflict in Bawku during its tenure. While acknowledging significant efforts to maintain stability, Nitiwul admitted that the inability to secure lasting peace remains a key regret for the outgoing administration.


We Couldn't Restore Peace in Bawku,' Defense Minister Nitiwul Admits
We Couldn't Restore Peace in Bawku,' Defense Minister Nitiwul Admits

In an interview with Joy News, Nitiwul defended the government’s actions, stating, “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.”


Government Measures to Address Bawku Conflict


Nitiwul detailed the measures taken by the government, including:


  • Deployment of security forces to maintain law and order in the region.

  • Engagement with stakeholders through dialogue and conflict-resolution initiatives.

  • Collaboration with traditional and community leaders to foster unity and understanding.


Despite these efforts, the interventions provided only temporary stability and failed to address the deeper, historical causes of the conflict.


Nitiwul emphasized the prominence of the Bawku conflict on the NPP government’s agenda, referencing former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s acknowledgment of the issue during his final State of the Nation Address.


“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,” he said.


Nitiwul further stressed the importance of building trust among the people of Bawku, saying, “The government should engender trust in the people. That’s the first thing the government needs to do.”


The Bawku conflict, primarily involving the Kusasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups, is deeply rooted in historical disputes and chieftaincy disagreements. These tensions have persisted for decades, causing widespread violence and devastation in the area. The most recent clashes claimed the lives of 41 individuals, highlighting the urgent need for a sustainable solution.


As the incoming administration takes office, resolving the Bawku conflict remains a critical priority. The outgoing government’s reflections highlight the need for a fresh approach, one that addresses the root causes of the conflict, builds trust among communities, and ensures lasting peace in the region.


Stay informed on trending political updates, technology, and more with Themiraspect! Join our Whatsapp Channel https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VanD1tLEwEjt1DU3Vp33


Comments

bottom of page