The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has assured the public of its preparedness to conduct elections in the Bawku Central constituency and surrounding areas, despite ongoing security challenges.
This assurance comes in response to concerns from some Ghanaians who fear that residents may be unable to participate in the December 7, 2024 elections due to the ongoing conflict in the region.
William Obeng Adarkwa, the Upper East Regional Director of the EC, emphasized the Commission’s collaboration with security agencies to ensure smooth and peaceful elections in the constituency. Speaking to Citi News, he stated, “As a commission, we are prepared. The issues in Bawku are primarily security-related, and the Ghana Police Service is responsible for general security in the area. We are in constant communication with them for updates and are actively training our officials to ensure they have the necessary skills for conducting the elections.”
He also appealed to the community to foster a peaceful atmosphere, enabling officials and materials to be in place for the elections as mandated by the constitution.
The recent ethnic unrest in Bawku intensified following the return of Seidu Abagre, a rival chief installed by the Nayiri, on October 26.
Abagre had been in exile after a February 2023 arrest warrant related to his disputed installation, but a High Court in Kumasi quashed the warrant on October 17, 2024, allowing him to return. His presence has reignited a longstanding chieftaincy dispute, leading to violent clashes that have resulted in at least two fatalities and multiple injuries.
The unrest has severely disrupted essential services in Bawku, with teachers and students vacating schools due to safety concerns.
Additionally, the Ghana Water Company Limited and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) have suspended operations, leaving residents with limited access to water and electricity.
To maintain order amidst these challenges, authorities have imposed a curfew from 6 am to 6 pm in Bawku, enforced by security personnel, as the community braces for potential further violence.
