“Otumfuo, we need your leadership now more than ever” – Bawku MPs plead after violence claimed six lives

“Otumfuo, we need your wisdom and leadership now more than ever,” These were the words of Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga, following the killing of six people in renewed clashes last Sunday.

Ayariga made the appeal during a press conference held by MPs from the Bawku area of the Upper East Region at Parliament House on Tuesday.

Escalating violence
On Sunday, July 13, a passenger vehicle carrying Mamprusis from Bolgatanga to Bawku under military escort, was ambushed by suspected Kusasi assailants. Two soldiers were shot and injured in the attack.

In retaliation, soldiers reportedly went on a rampage, resulting in six civilian deaths and over 20 injuries, according to the MPs.

Additionally, the statue of Bawku Naba Abugrago Azorka III was destroyed, an act the lawmakers condemned as an insult to the Kusasi people.

The MPs demanded that the Armed Forces issue an unqualified apology to the Bawku Naba and his subjects for the military’s unprofessional conduct.

Call for Otumfuo’s intervention
Ayariga appealed to the Asantehene to accelerate efforts toward resolving the conflict. “We’re appealing to Otumfuo to expedite action. We know it’s a complicated matter, but we all have confidence in him and his ability to bring an end to the situation. The earlier the better for all of us. That is why the MPs are appealing to him to expedite action,” Ayariga said.