Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has issued a passionate call to heads of security services in the region to adopt a tactical and trust-inspiring approach in managing security-related issues. He also urged them to fully support the Otumfuo-led mediation efforts aimed at bringing a lasting resolution to the long-standing Bawku conflict.
Speaking at the maiden meeting of the Regional Co-ordinating Council held in Bolgatanga, the Minister emphasized that peace and stability are non-negotiable prerequisites for development.
“Without peace, there can be no education, healthcare, investment, or meaningful development,” the Minister declared. “The Upper East Region is rich in culture and tradition, but unfortunately, we continue to face numerous security challenges ranging from land and chieftaincy disputes to mining-related tensions and cross-border concerns.”
He stressed that addressing these challenges demands coordinated efforts and collaboration across institutions, ethnic lines, and district boundaries. “Let us work closely with our security agencies, traditional leaders, youth groups, and civil society to consolidate peace where it exists and restore it where it is fragile,” he urged.
Mr. Akamugri indicated the urgency and sensitivity required in handling communal issues, urging security agencies to act decisively while maintaining public trust. He underscored the critical role of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s mediation initiative in Bawku and called on all stakeholders to rally behind the effort.
“The Otumfuo’s cultural-led mediation remains the most promising effort in resolving the Bawku conflict. It is incumbent upon us to lend it the support it deserves for the sake of regional and national stability,” he said.
The Minister also called on Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), as well as other government agencies, to prioritize peacebuilding and consensus-building in their operations. “Our decisions must reflect a commitment to unity and harmony. We must de-escalate existing tensions and proactively prevent future conflicts,” he added.
Mr. Akamugri referenced the recently launched Code of Conduct for government appointees by President John Dramani Mahama, stressing the need for ethical governance. “We must uphold transparency, integrity, and impartiality in all our dealings and avoid conflicts of interest. Our conduct must inspire public confidence and reflect the values of public service.”
The Regional Co-ordinating Council meeting is a constitutional requirement which is enshrined in Article 255 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 191 (1) of the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936). It is a platform for fostering collaboration, reviewing progress, aligning with the collective vision, and charting strategic pathways for advancing the development of the region.
It brought together heads of security agencies, government appointees, civil society representatives, department heads, and presiding members from all district and municipal assemblies across the region.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah|Bolgatanga
