President John Dramani Mahama has called for calm in the Bawku area and strongly condemned the recent spate of violence, particularly attacks on innocent students.
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In response to the worsening security situation, the President has announced a shift in military strategy—from a peacekeeping approach to full peace enforcement—empowering the Ghana Armed Forces to act decisively in restoring order.
Rising Tensions in Bawku: Students Under Fire
Bawku, a region with a history of ethnic and chieftaincy tensions, has seen a fresh wave of violence, with students now among the latest victims. Expressing deep concern over the recent killings, President Mahama stated:
“We cannot accept the current situation in Bawku where students are shot and killed.”
With the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fast approaching, the safety of candidates and school staff has become a top national priority. As part of emergency measures, the government has directed the deployment of police officers to all Senior High School campuses in Bawku, ensuring that students can sit their exams in peace and security.
Peace Enforcement: A Firm Stance Against Instability
President Mahama’s directive to transition the Ghana Armed Forces from peacekeeping to peace enforcement marks a bold escalation in the government’s commitment to restoring calm in Bawku. This transition grants the military greater authority to act preemptively and decisively against perpetrators of violence.
A contingent of 400 personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces is now being deployed to Bawku. These soldiers, charged with high morale, are entering the region with a renewed mandate to stabilize and secure lives, schools, and communities affected by the conflict.
According to President Mahama, the ongoing unrest appears to be orchestrated by elements seeking to derail national peacebuilding efforts, particularly at a time when substantial progress has been made through mediation.
Otumfuo’s Mediation Efforts Recognized
The President also commended the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his dedicated efforts in mediating peace in Bawku. Otumfuo’s leadership in facilitating dialogue among the conflicting parties has been widely recognized as a valuable step toward sustainable peace.
“Otumfuo is making meaningful progress with mediation efforts,” President Mahama acknowledged. “We must all support this process and resist attempts to destabilize it.”
Restoring Calm and Safeguarding Education
In a move to combine security with educational continuity, the President has outlined a set of government interventions aimed at restoring calm while safeguarding the future of Bawku’s youth:
- Deployment of police presence across SHS campuses in Bawku ahead of the WASSCE exams
- Enhanced military enforcement operations with proactive rules of engagement
- Community outreach and engagement programs to reduce fear and promote peace
- Support systems for affected students and families, including psychological assistance and counseling services
These measures are designed to create a safer environment for learning, while neutralizing threats that could prolong the region’s instability.
A National Call to Action
President Mahama appealed to all Ghanaians—traditional authorities, local leaders, civil society organizations, and political groups—to unite in supporting the national peace agenda. He emphasized that violence undermines development, delays progress, and deepens social divisions.
“This is a time for unity, not blame. Every stakeholder must play their part in ensuring that Bawku regains its peace. Ghana must rise above internal divisions for the sake of our children and our collective future,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As Ghana ramps up its military and civil responses in Bawku, the government remains committed to balancing security enforcement with human rights and reconciliation. The President’s decisive action demonstrates a clear prioritization of public safety, student welfare, and long-term peace in the region.
The nation watches with hope as security forces begin their renewed mission, and as traditional leaders like Otumfuo continue their peacebuilding efforts. The path forward demands resolve, unity, and collective responsibility—from the top of government to the grassroots.
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