The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central and Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, has issued a condemnation of the recent violent confrontations between youth groups and security forces in Bawku, describing the situation as deeply troubling and urging for calm amid heightened tensions.

In a statement released while on official duty abroad, Mr. Ayariga expressed deep concern over the reported loss of lives and injuries resulting from the disturbances, which also saw his private residence vandalized in what he described as an attempted arson attack.

“Whilst attending an official assignment out of the country, I have learnt about fatal violent encounters between the police and the youth in Bawku and a subsequent vandalization and attempt to burn my private residence in Bawku in anger,” he stated.

Mr. Ayariga acknowledged the growing frustration among the youth, particularly over the protracted nature of the Bawku and Kusaug chieftaincy conflict, as well as allegations of misconduct by some members of the security forces. He offered his sympathies to the victims and called for restraint.

“I understand the anger and frustration of the youth about the pace of the resolution of the situation in Bawku and Kusaug and the misconduct of some misguided law enforcement officers. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) government remains committed to its promise to ensure justice and lasting peace. My condolences to the bereaved and sympathies to the injured.”

Reaffirming his support for ongoing mediation efforts, the MP threw his weight behind the peace process being spearheaded by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, with the involvement of key traditional authorities from the region.

“In this regard, I will urge all of us to remain committed to the peace process being led by His Majesty the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. The Overlord of Kusaug, Zugran Naaba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II and the Overlord of Mamprugu, Nayiri Naa Bohagu Mahami Sheriga have committed themselves to the process and are fully participating.”

Mr. Ayariga further stressed the need for adherence to Ghana’s legal and constitutional frameworks in addressing the longstanding dispute. “I want to assure the people of Bawku and Kusaug, whom I represent, that I remain resolute and committed to a lasting resolution of the matter according to the well-established laws and judicial decisions of Ghana, which must ultimately be respected and enforced.”

He also used the opportunity to denounce what he described as politically motivated attacks against him, warning detractors against exploiting the unrest for electoral advantage.

“Kindly disregard the lies being told about me by political detractors and people seeking shamelessly to take advantage of the current unfortunate situation in Bawku and Kusaug to settle personal electoral political scores. The smear campaign on social media will not distract me. In the end, we will be vindicated.”

Reiterating his long-held stance on the chieftaincy dispute, Mr. Ayariga made clear his support for the Kusaug youth, but insisted the matter be resolved through the ongoing peace framework.

“My personal position on the matter has been known to all over the years and has never changed. It won’t change. I agree with the youth of Kusaug that another person cannot reside in Bawku claiming to be chief. But in reverence to the great Asante Stool, I leave that matter to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to resolve expeditiously. The law enforcement officers must be cautious.”