The Government of Ghana has announced a shift from traditional peacekeeping to active peace enforcement in the Bawku area and other affected communities, following a worrying surge in violence that threatens to derail ongoing peace efforts.
A statement issued by the Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Sunday, July 27, 2025, confirmed the new approach, stating that the Ghana Armed Forces have been deployed to maintain law and order. The move comes in the wake of recent killings that have intensified tensions in the protracted Bawku chieftaincy conflict.
“The Ghana Armed Forces have been deployed to maintain law and order, as we intensify curfews to ensure public safety. We assure the public that the Ghana Armed Forces will take all necessary measures to protect lives and property,” the statement read.
The Presidency acknowledged the significant contributions of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in mediating the conflict and commended the active involvement of the Nayiri and Zugraana traditional authorities. According to the statement, their collective efforts had brought the conflict to the brink of resolution until the recent violence disrupted the fragile peace.
“Government commends His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for mediating the conflict and appreciates all stakeholders who are supporting the peace process,” the release said.
Calling for calm, the government urged all parties involved in the conflict to abandon violence and lend their full support to the peace process. Residents were further encouraged to cooperate fully with security forces to ensure the restoration of order.
“Government urges all parties to refrain from violence and support the peace process. Residents are advised to fully cooperate with the Ghana Armed Forces to ensure peace,” it added.
While acknowledging the inconvenience the enhanced security measures may cause to peace-loving residents, the government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all people living in and around the conflict zone, including students and vulnerable groups.
“While regretting the inconvenience this peace enforcement intervention may cause… the Government of Ghana remains committed to restoring peace and stability in Bawku and other affected areas and is taking every necessary measure to ensure the safety and security of all residents, including students,” the statement concluded.
The government’s stronger stance follows mounting public concern and calls for decisive action to prevent further bloodshed in the long-standing ethnic and chieftaincy dispute that has plagued the Upper East Region town for years.
