GAF monitoring Bawku, high tension areas to provide swift response – Defence Minister

Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has assured Ghanaians that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is keenly monitoring developments in Bawku and surrounding areas and is fully ready to contain any heightened tension.

He made this known at the Jubilee House on Monday, July 21, when he took his turn to give an update on the state of the defence sector as part of the Government Accountability Series.

Dr. Boamah said, “We acknowledge that the situation in Bawku and Alavanyo and their immediate surroundings remains volatile. The Ghana Armed Forces is actively monitoring and has put in place robust mechanisms to ensure any potential escalation is swiftly contained in the interest of the people and long-lasting resolution of the conflict through dialogue.”

Dr. Omane Boamah warned that although the government remains committed to a peaceful resolution, any criminal taking advantage of the conflict for their gain will be dealt with.

“In doing so, we shall always separate crimes from traditional matters, enabling us to deal appropriately and legally with criminals who foment trouble in the name of chieftaincy conflict,” he said.

The Defence Minister’s assurance comes on the back of heightened tensions in parts of the Upper East, where ethnic and chieftaincy-related disputes have led to insecurity and displacement.