The death toll from the renewed violence surrounding the longstanding chieftaincy conflict in Bawku has risen to 16, as confirmed by the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng.
He disclosed this information during a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.
The conflict, which pits the Kusasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups against each other, reignited after a parallel chief returned to Bawku following the withdrawal of his arrest warrant by a court of appeal.
For years, Bawku, a commercial town in the Upper East Region, has been plagued by ethnic tensions stemming from chieftaincy disputes.
In December 2022, violence claimed 18 lives and caused extensive property damage. The area had experienced a period of relative calm until October 26, 2024, when gunmen blocked the Bolgatanga-Tamale road, resulting in eight fatalities.
Asamoah Boateng emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing measures aimed at restoring peace and ensuring the safety of Bawku residents.
“Government is committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the people of Bawku and its environs.
Chieftaincy Minister Stephen Asamoah Boateng has called on all parties to avoid conspiracy theories and refrain from politicizing the situation.
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