Bawku conflict: Mahama’s silence, posturing embolden impunity — Kusaasi Youth Movement

A youth group calling itself the Kusaasi Youth Movement (KYM), has criticised President John Dramani Mahama over what it describes as a worrying silence and posture that encourages impunity amid the protracted Bawku conflict.

In a press statement issued on dated June 16, KYM said the president’s continued silence on the legal dimensions of the conflict are emboldening lawlessness in the embattled area.

They contend that President Mahama’s recent conduct is not only disappointing but has also sent dangerous signals that justice and rule of law may be selectively applied.

“We, the youth of Kusaug want to remind you that, the massive political support you had in Kusaug territory was not for favoritism, but for the strict enforcement of the rule of law. Unfortunately, Mr. President, your silence and recent posturing embolden impunity,” the group stated.

KYM also questioned President Mahama’s seeming silence on the constitutional breaches surrounding the enskinment of a rival Mamprusi chief in Bawku—an act they claim ignited the latest wave of violence that has claimed hundreds of lives since 2021.

They urged the president to decisively address the legal breaches at the heart of the conflict, noting that the path to lasting peace must begin with fairness, justice, and accountability.

“If the laws of Ghana are not applied equally, peace will remain elusive. Mr. President, we are reminding you that justice is the foundation of peace, and your legacy will be judged by how you will respond to this truth,” KYM warned.

The youth group further expressed their disappointment at what they view as veiled support by the president for the Nayiri, the Mamprugu Overlord, who enskinned a rival chief in Bawku in violation of Ghana’s laws.