Security and political analyst, Professor Kwesi Aning, has urged the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, to take decisive action to address the escalating conflicts in Bawku.

According to him, the conflict in Bawku is likely to intensify, with many describing the town as a “ghost town,” a warning sign that more violence may follow.

“I think the Minister must grab the bull by the horns and say this is where the problem is. We cannot have two rival chiefs, we cannot allow the authority of the state to be challenged,” he said on JoyNews’ Top Story on Tuesday, October 29.

• Read also: Curfew imposed on Bawku amid rising tensions, loss of lives

His remarks follow the renewed disturbances triggered by the return of Seidu Abagre, who was controversially enskinned as Bawku Naba in February 2023.

Despite the absence of legal recognition for his title, his presence has worsened tensions between rival factions, leading to multiple clashes and the deaths of 16 people.

Prof Aning suggested that removing the rival chiefs would demonstrate the state’s authority and the rule of law, sending a clear message that no faction can challenge the state.

He further noted that Bawku had long been a divided town, even before the current conflicts, stating that such division is not conducive to lasting peace.

Meanwhile, the Chieftaincy Minister has cautioned the feuding Bawku factions to stop politicking and the blame games with the sensitive issue at hand.

• Read also: Bawku conflict: No one should play politics with this sensitive matter – Chieftaincy Minister warns

Addressing a press briefing on Tuesday, October 29, Mr Asamoah Boateng urged the factions to allow the crisis to be resolved so that calm could return.

He stated that the government is aware of the misinterpretations by the factions involved, which appear to be escalating the situation.

Acknowledging a sense of mistrust that has emerged over the past week, he assured all parties that the trust they have placed in him, particularly in his role as the Minister responsible for Chieftaincy Affairs, and in the government, must be maintained.

He added that the government’s commitment to resolving the issue impartially.