Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, has strongly condemned the recent violent clashes between police and youth in Bawku, which have reportedly led to injuries, fatalities, and an attack on his private residence.
In a statement issued while on official duty abroad, the MP called for calm and expressed condolences to those affected by the unrest.
“Whilst attending an official assignment out of the country, I have learnt about fatal violent encounters between the police and the youth in Bawku and a subsequent vandalization and attempt to burn my private residence in Bawku in anger,” he stated.
Ayariga acknowledged the frustration among young people over the slow progress in resolving the protracted Bawku and Kusaug conflict, as well as concerns about misconduct by some members of the security forces.
“I understand the anger and frustration of the youth about the pace of the resolution of the situation in Bawku and Kusaug and the misconduct of some misguided law enforcement officers. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) government remains committed to its promise to ensure justice and lasting peace. My condolences to the bereaved and sympathies to the injured,” he added.
The MP reaffirmed his support for the peace process led by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, noting that it has the full backing of key traditional rulers in the region.
“I urge all of us to remain committed to the peace process being led by His Majesty the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. The Overlord of Kusaug, Zugran Naaba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, and the Overlord of Mamprugu, Nayiri Naa Bohagu Mahami Sheriga, have committed themselves to the process and are fully participating,” he emphasized.
Ayariga assured his constituents of his unwavering commitment to a peaceful resolution, guided by the rule of law and judicial decisions.
“I want to assure the people of Bawku and Kusaug, whom I represent, that I remain resolute and committed to a lasting resolution of the matter according to the well-established laws and judicial decisions of Ghana, which must ultimately be respected and enforced.”
He also addressed what he described as politically motivated attempts to discredit him.
“Kindly disregard the lies being told about me by political detractors and people seeking shamelessly to take advantage of the current unfortunate situation in Bawku and Kusaug to settle personal electoral political scores. The smear campaign on social media will not distract me. In the end, we will be vindicated.”
Reiterating his long-standing position on the chieftaincy dispute, Ayariga reaffirmed his trust in the Asantehene’s leadership to find a lasting solution.
“My personal position on the matter has been known to all over the years and has never changed. It won’t change. I agree with the youth of Kusaug that another person cannot reside in Bawku claiming to be chief. But in reverence to the great Asante Stool, I leave that matter to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to resolve expeditiously. The law enforcement officers must be cautious.”
By Najat Adamu
