By Eric Appah Marfo
Accra, April 12, GNA – Mr. Richard Kumadoe, a Security Consultant, stated that the protracted Bawku conflict would only be resolved if political interference ceased.
He attributed the divisive nature of politics as a key factor fueling the conflict and noted that political interference obstructs the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the violence.
Speaking on an Accra-based television programme on Saturday, he also blamed “conflict entrepreneurs”—business owners who exploit the unrest for financial gain.
“The weapons being used in the conflict are beyond the means of the local people. These politicians and conflict entrepreneurs are the ones sponsoring them,” he alleged.
Mr. Kumadoe condemned the recent burning of a police station, calling it an affront to state authority and a dangerous escalation.
One person was reported dead, and several civilians injured, following violent clashes between youth and security personnel in Bawku, Upper East Region.
The clashes led to the burning of a police barracks and the residence of Assistant Commissioner of Police Adamu Seidu, the Bawku Divisional Police Commander, as well as attacks on the private residences of two other police officers.
Security sources confirmed that an immigration officer was shot and is receiving treatment at a health facility.
Despite heightened tensions, security agencies restored calm to the area and reinforced security with intensified patrols by police and military.
Mr. Kumadoe emphasized that the presence of security agencies in Bawku aimed not only to maintain peace but also to prevent terrorist infiltration into Ghana through the conflict-prone area.
He encouraged the mediation team handling the Bawku issue to intensify efforts for lasting peace and stressed the need for a neutral, depoliticised approach to resolving the crisis.
Kumadoe also called for public education on conflict resolution to prevent misunderstandings from escalating into violence.
Mr. Alfred Kojo Thompson, former Deputy Managing Director of the National Investment Bank, similarly blamed political interference for fueling the conflict.
He urged politicians and the people of Bawku to consider the legacy they wish to leave for future generations and support peace efforts.
Mr. Thompson noted that the conflict discourages government and private sector investment, stalling development in the area.
He called for a collective, non-partisan approach to resolving the crisis, prioritizing national interest.
Mr. Godwin Ako Gunn, Deputy National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress, argued that the roots of the conflict go deeper than political interference.
“Every issue has a root cause. It’s important to dig into the origins of the Bawku conflict to find a lasting solution,” he said.
Gunn commended President John Dramani Mahama for supporting the Otumfuo-led peace mediation team and praised Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, the Inspector-General of Police, for his recent visit to Bawku and logistical support to security agencies.
He urged the people of Bawku to reflect on their losses and embrace peace.
“This conflict has disrupted lives—people can’t move freely, work, or send their children to school. Without peace, progress in the area will continue to suffer,” he added.
GNA
KAS