A peace campaigner in Ghana says using the military to stop fighting in Bawku will not lead to long-term peace.
Susan Adu-Amankwah, head of the National Interest Movement, said real peace needs time, patience, and honest talks between the people involved.
“Peace is not something that just happens quickly,” she said on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme. “It takes hard work and both sides must feel they are gaining something from it.”
She spoke after a recent incident where police tried to take Mamprusi women to the market. This caused a fight, and a youth leader was shot. The situation in Bawku became more tense after that.
“You can’t force peace,” Adu-Amankwah said. “Just sending in the army doesn’t mean the problem is solved. True peace means justice, fairness, and people living calmly together.”
She welcomed the efforts of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who is trying to help bring peace to the area. She said he understands the problem well and is respected by many.
“He knows the history behind the conflict,” she said. “But even he can’t fix it in a day. It will take time.”
Adu-Amankwah also asked the young people in Bawku to stay calm and think about the future. She said the fighting is costing Ghana a lot—not just in money, but in the lost chances for the town to grow and develop.
“It’s expensive to keep sending soldiers there,” she said. “And it’s even more costly when part of the country isn’t growing.”
The conflict in Bawku, mostly over chieftaincy issues, has lasted for many years. Many people believe that only honest dialogue and understanding can end it for good.
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