The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central and Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring lasting peace in the Bawku area, following renewed violent clashes in the constituency. 

In a press statement issued on Friday, 11 April, Mr Ayariga expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and sympathies to those injured in the conflict, which also saw an attempt to burn down his private residence in Bawku.

Mr Ayariga, who is currently on an official assignment abroad, acknowledged the frustration of the youth in Bawku over the slow pace of resolving the protracted conflict, as well as alleged misconduct by certain law enforcement officers. 

He reiterated that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government remains committed to justice and a sustainable peace process in the region. 

“I understand the anger and frustration of the youth about the pace of the resolution… and the misconduct of some misguided law enforcement officers,” he stated.

The MP called on all parties to continue supporting the peace initiative being championed by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. 

He noted that both the Overlord of Kusaug, Zugran Naaba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, and the Overlord of Mamprugu, Nayiri Naa Bɔhagu Mahami Sheriga, are actively involved and have shown strong commitment to the process. 

He urged constituents to remain united behind these efforts for the sake of long-term peace.

Mr Ayariga also addressed what he described as a “smear campaign” against him on social media, alleging that some individuals were trying to exploit the situation in Bawku for political gain. “

Kindly disregard the lies being told about me by political detractors…

The smear campaign on social media will not distract me,” he said, adding that he remains unwavering in his resolve to see the conflict resolved in accordance with Ghana’s laws and judicial rulings.