Kennedy Agyapong, the former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, has urged for tranquility and solidarity following a resurgence of violence in Bawku and its neighboring regions, which has resulted in numerous deaths and injuries.
In a statement issued on Sunday, April 13, Mr. Agyapong expressed his grave concern regarding the heightened tensions that arose after a violent confrontation between law enforcement and local youth in the Bawku area on Thursday, April 10.
The unrest reportedly led to casualties and the alleged arson of the private residence belonging to Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga.
He called on the youth to exercise restraint, emphasizing that no grievance should result in loss of life or the devastation of communities.
“I have been closely monitoring the recent rise in tensions in Bawku and its surrounding areas. The ongoing cycles of violence and retaliation, stemming from long-standing tribal disputes, continue to inflict suffering and instability on our people.
“At this pivotal time, I urge for calm—particularly from the youth. No grievance, no matter how deeply felt, can justify the loss of life or the destruction of our communities. Our ability to coexist peacefully is essential for the prosperity and development we aspire to achieve; without it, we cannot build the Ghana we all envision,” he remarked.
Mr. Agyapong also praised President John Dramani Mahama for initiating a mediation process led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II—an effort that was originally established under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
“This is a commendable demonstration of statesmanship and national unity, prioritizing Ghana over partisan interests,” he stated.
He encouraged all parties involved in the conflict to support the committee led by Otumfuo in its mission to restore peace, highlighting that national unity and progress are contingent upon stability throughout the nation.
“When peace prevails in Bawku, peace prevails in Ghana. No region of this country can thrive while another suffers. Ghana must advance together,” Mr. Agyapong concluded.
Below is the statement from Kennedy Agyapong:
“I have been closely monitoring the recent rise in tensions in Bawku and its neighboring areas with great concern. The ongoing cycles of violence and retaliation, stemming from long-standing tribal disputes, continue to inflict suffering and instability on our communities.
At this pivotal juncture, I urge everyone, particularly the youth, to remain calm. No matter how intense the grievances may be, they do not warrant the loss of life or the devastation of our neighborhoods. Our ability to coexist peacefully is essential for the prosperity and development we aspire to achieve; without it, we cannot create the Ghana we all envision.
I would like to commend President Mahama for initiating the mediation process under the leadership of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, which was originally established by H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. This action reflects a commendable spirit of statesmanship and national unity, prioritizing Ghana over political divisions.
I encourage all stakeholders to provide the Otumfuo-led committee with the necessary support to fulfill its mission effectively. It is important to recognize that peace in Bawku translates to peace throughout Ghana. No region can thrive while another suffers. We must advance as one nation.
Let us all—leaders and citizens—contribute to the restoration of enduring peace.
Hon. Ken Ohene Agyapong”
