The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of politicising the ongoing conflict in Bawku, describing the situation as an "unprecedented crisis."
Addressing a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, July 29, Mr. Kodua alleged that former President John Mahama, during his campaign, sought to leverage the instability in Bawku for political advantage.
“The then-candidate Mahama made several remarks implying that the crisis would be resolved only under an NDC government, suggesting the NPP administration was failing the people of Bawku,” Mr. Kodua said.
He further claimed that actions by the NDC in the lead-up to the 2024 elections appeared to stoke ethnic tensions in the area.
“When we reflect on the events that unfolded in Bawku ahead of the 2024 elections, it becomes clear that the NDC deliberately inflamed tribal tensions, which has contributed to the crisis we face today,” he asserted.
Despite the accusations, Mr. Kodua reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to peace and national unity. He said the party is willing to work with the government to help restore stability in Bawku.
“For the sake of our democracy and the lives at risk, we are ready to support any genuine efforts to bring lasting peace to the area,” he stated.
He also called on the NDC government to put the national interest above political considerations in addressing the conflict.
“We urge the NDC to treat the Bawku crisis as a national issue and set aside partisan motives that could undermine peace efforts,” Mr. Kodua added.
Bawku, located in Ghana’s Upper East Region, has long been troubled by recurring ethnic violence. In recent years, the conflict has intensified, drawing concern from human rights groups and security experts.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem