Accra, Ghana – The Ghanaian government has deployed additional military forces and imposed a strict curfew in the northeastern city of Bawku following a fresh outbreak of violence stemming from a long-standing leadership conflict between the Mamprusi and Kusasi ethnic groups.
The measures, announced on Sunday, 27 July 2025, come in response to escalating tensions and renewed clashes that have gripped the area in recent days. The government said the military reinforcement aims to stabilize the situation and protect civilians as efforts to mediate the dispute continue.
The Mamprusi-Kusasi conflict over traditional leadership and chieftaincy rights has plagued Bawku for decades, making it one of Ghana’s most persistent and volatile ethnic disputes. Despite numerous attempts at mediation and peacebuilding by successive governments, religious leaders, and civil society actors, the conflict remains unresolved and frequently turns violent.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the number of casualties or arrests in the latest incident, but local reports suggest that the violence has disrupted daily life and heightened fears among residents.
The Ministry of the Interior emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and urged both communities to cooperate with security forces and adhere to the curfew. Government officials also reiterated their commitment to long-term conflict resolution and development in the troubled region.
As the situation develops, human rights organizations and local observers have called for greater transparency, restraint by security forces, and renewed investment in dialogue and reconciliation initiatives.
By Charles Ado
