Mahama Decries Bawku Violence, Urges Calm and Justice
President urges military restraint, justice for victims, and cooperation with Otumfuo’s mediation efforts.
President John Dramani Mahama has strongly condemned the recent violence in Bawku, including the killing of a military officer and the subsequent military retaliation that left several civilians, including women and children, injured.
Speaking in the Upper East Region on Thursday, March 20, 2025, as part of his “Thank You Tour,” Mahama expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions.
“I strongly condemn the killing of a Ghana Armed Forces officer in Bawku. These personnel are peacekeepers deployed to protect lives and property, and it is unacceptable for them to be targeted in a conflict they are not part of,” he stated.
While acknowledging the grief and anger within the military, Mahama also criticized the excessive force used in response, urging security forces to exercise restraint and rely on intelligence-led operations to bring perpetrators to justice.
The former president extended his condolences to the bereaved soldier’s family and sympathized with the civilians affected by the military’s actions. He emphasized the need for national unity and development, stressing that the Upper East Region, like all parts of Ghana, deserves peace and progress.
Mahama also commended the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his mediation efforts and called on all factions in the Bawku conflict to cooperate with his peace initiatives.
